What happened
Ukrainian drones have struck multiple warehouses of Russia's largest online retailer, Wildberries, over several days, dealing a significant blow to small and medium-sized businesses that rely on the platform. The attacks, which Kyiv says target logistics hubs used for military supplies, have destroyed goods worth an estimated £750 million ($1 billion) and killed at least eight workers.
Why it matters for the market
The first attack hit two warehouses in Elektrostal east of Moscow and Kotovsk in the Tambov region over the weekend. Subsequent strikes targeted facilities in Koledino south of Moscow, as well as Krasnodar and Nevinnomyssk in the Stavropol region. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky stated, "We are, quite justly, bringing the war back home - to Russia."
Wildberries and its rival Ozon are used by an estimated 85-90% of Russia's economically active population, serving as essential shopping platforms in remote areas. The attacks have frustrated hundreds of sellers, many of whom have lost substantial stock. One trader reported losing 1.4 million roubles (£13,300) worth of teenage clothing, while another mother of a disabled child said she lost 1 million roubles (£9,500).
Compensation remains uncertain. Less than two weeks before the attacks, Wildberries added drone strikes to its list of force majeure events, exempting the company from liability. Owner Tatiana Kim has promised support and offered temporary discounts, but sellers remain anxious about further strikes.
The attacks come amid broader economic strain on Russian businesses. VAT increased from 20% to 22% in January, and 209,000 small and medium-sized companies closed in the first quarter of 2026, 9% more than the same period in 2025. Fuel shortages from Ukrainian strikes on oil infrastructure have compounded the challenges, with inflation high and oil and gas revenues down 23% year-on-year.
What traders should watch
While the Kremlin denies that online platforms are used for army supplies, pro-war bloggers say volunteers routinely rely on them to purchase kit for the front. There is no independent confirmation that the targeted warehouses stored military goods, but the attacks have brought the war's impact closer to home for many Russians.
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