Drone strike hits Wildberries logistics center in Russia's Tambov Oblast

A drone strike targeted a Wildberries logistics center in Kotovsk, Tambov Oblast, Russia, on August 26, resulting in a significant fire, according to independent monitoring sources. Regional Governor Yevgeny Pervyshov confirmed the attack, noting that Ukrainian drones caused extensive damage, with the fire spreading across over 100,000 square meters.

Wildberries also reported the incident, stating that new deliveries were not being accepted at the facility. Residents reported hearing explosions near the site. The Kotovsk facility is one of Wildberries' primary logistics hubs in Central Russia, with plans to store up to 54 million items upon full operation. The facility had previously been targeted on July 18, leading to a fire that killed seven employees and forced a temporary suspension of operations.

Ukraine's Defense Ministry reported on August 16 that Ukrainian forces had targeted and disabled seven of Wildberries' ten largest logistics centers. Analysts estimate that Wildberries has suffered infrastructure losses worth 147 to 223 billion rubles, or $1.75 to $2.65 billion. Sellers connected to the platform may face further financial repercussions, with losses estimated between $7.14 and $8.3 billion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed the attacks as having no "critical consequences," stating that any damaged capacity would require rebuilding, potentially with state support.