In Russia, July 27 coincided with the traditional Navy Day, and on this date, state leader Vladimir Putin visited St. Petersburg. According to Kremlin sources, he personally observed the large-scale "July Storm" navy exercises at the Main Admiralty, which were held from July 23 to 27, and gave his assessment.
In ordinary years, this holiday is celebrated not only as Navy Day but also with the Main Naval Parade in St. Petersburg. However, this time, the situation changed dramatically: the parade was officially canceled. The first reports spread through Fontanka sources, and on July 25, the city transport committee gave official confirmation. Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov linked this decision to security concerns and the general situation.
From early morning that day, the threat increased in the Leningrad region. Governor Alexander Drozdenko reported that "more than ten drones" were destroyed. Drone debris fell in the Gatchina, Kingisepp, and Lomonosov districts, as well as in the settlement of Voiskovitsy and the Primorsk industrial zone. As a result of this attack, one woman was confirmed injured in the Lomonosov district. The governor warned that in such situations, mobile internet service could be partially limited.
Since spring, Russian regions have regularly experienced mobile communication disruptions due to Ukrainian drone attacks, and security measures are being consistently tightened. At Pulkovo Airport, five-hour restrictions were also imposed due to drone attacks: more than 50 flights were delayed, and 22 flights were redirected to alternate airfields.
By 12:00, the drone threat was officially canceled. However, local publications noted that this time, the Leningrad region experienced the most extensive and intense air attacks— a record number of drones targeted the region in a single day. The previous record involved only four drones.
Conclusion: This year, Navy Day in St. Petersburg passed under unprecedented security measures and unprecedented drone attacks. The parade was canceled, airport operations were restricted, and some citizens were injured. In such circumstances, the country's and region's leadership is forced to prioritize security. Whether such threats will repeat at future celebrations remains an open question.
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