In a recent series of strikes over several days, Ukraine has targeted Wildberries, the largest online retailer in Russia, causing significant damage to multiple warehouses. These attacks follow months of focused efforts on oil and refining infrastructure, but they now represent a strategic pivot to disrupt supply chains crucial for the Russian military.
The first wave of destruction hit warehouses in Elektrostal, just outside Moscow, and in Kotovsk, located in the Tambov region. The incidents led to the tragic loss of seven lives in Kotovsk and one death in Elektrostal, alongside extensive material damage. Kyiv explained that these warehouses were used to supply vital components for drone manufacturing and navigation systems, essential for the Russian armed forces.
For many Russian small business owners, the ongoing conflict is no longer distant. The financial impact has become deeply personal, as businesses are hit by losses due to these targeted strikes. One woman shared her experience, stating it felt like being 'screwed over from every direction.' Her company faced losses amounting to 1 million roubles, further compounding the strain caused by broader economic pressures from the war.
The pattern of attacks continued with new strikes occurring overnight, this time targeting Wildberries logistics hubs in Krasnodar and Nevinnomyssk, both situated in the Stavropol region. Wildberries' owner, Tatiana Kim, confirmed additional casualties and reiterated the company's commitment to supporting sellers affected by the incidents. These repeated attacks highlight an ongoing escalation in efforts to disrupt vital supply routes.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has described these actions as a deliberate move to 'bring the war back home' to Russia. His government views these strikes as part of a broader strategy to isolate Russian-annexed Crimea by cutting off critical supply lines, resulting in resource shortages and operational challenges for the Russian military.
Businesses in the Middle of Conflict
The reliance of the Russian population on Wildberries and its main competitor, Ozon, is immense. It is estimated that 85-90% of the economically active population depends on these platforms for daily needs, especially in rural areas lacking nearby retail options. The recent attacks have left many sellers without access to their goods, with no expectation of compensation for the losses incurred.
One example is a stationery seller whose entire stock was destroyed in the Elektrostal warehouse attack. This loss is particularly painful during the back-to-school season, when demand for such items peaks. Another seller, who specializes in teenage clothing, reported losses of over 1.4 million roubles and has paused new supplies while assessing the future of her business.
In a move that has drawn significant criticism, Wildberries recently updated its seller contracts to include drone attacks as 'force majeure events,' absolving the platform of liability for losses. In response to the crises, the company has introduced temporary discounts and waived certain shipment fees to offer some level of relief to sellers.
Despite these measures, the fear of future attacks remains a pressing concern. Unlike Western retailers such as Amazon, which handle both product sales and distribution, Wildberries and Ozon function primarily as marketplaces. This structure means sellers—not the platforms themselves—shoulder the burden of losses, adding to their vulnerability in these times.
While the Kremlin denies the use of such online platforms for military supply purposes, pro-war bloggers assert that these sites are commonly used to purchase gear destined for the front lines. However, no independent verification has been provided to support this claim. During the war, President Vladimir Putin has frequently emphasized the importance of small businesses as a critical component of Russia's economic resilience in the face of Western sanctions.