The Governor of the Pskov Region, Mikhail Vedernikov, reaffirmed that regional authorities are actively strengthening security measures to protect residents and critical infrastructure. Speaking on PLN FM, he reflected on this year’s UAV attack on Pskov Airport and detailed the steps taken by the government to bolster safety, including enhanced surveillance, rapid response drills, and reinforced perimeter controls. He stressed that the threat landscape remains dynamic and that vigilance is essential for public reassurance and effective risk management.
Vedernikov affirmed that the possibility of a repeat incident cannot be ruled out. He noted that preparedness must cover a range of scenarios, from conventional aerial threats to evolving security challenges posed by unauthorized actors. He recalled past questions from the public about potential bombings, energy outages, shelter availability, and safe evacuation routes, and he reminded listeners that authorities continuously evaluate and update contingency plans. He even joked about considering unlikely hypothetical scenarios to keep planners sharp, underscoring the importance of proactive, rather than reactive, preparedness.
The governor highlighted two principal threats demanding constant attention: drone-based attacks and individuals, including some who may not hold Russian citizenship, who could engage in crime or violence. He described a two-pronged approach to counter these risks, combining robust defense measures with social and legal measures aimed at preventing threats from materializing. He urged ongoing coordination among regional agencies, law enforcement, and civil society to maintain a resilient security posture that protects both cities and rural communities alike.
Recent operations in August involved Ukrainian drones launching a multi-regional strike, affecting central Russia and the Pskov region. The incident caused a fire at the Pskov airport and damaged several Il-76 military transport aircraft, while other drones were intercepted by air defense forces. The governor noted that such events test the readiness of emergency services and the effectiveness of coordination between aviation authorities, regional administration, and security agencies. He emphasized that resilience is built through continual practice, faster decision-making, and reliable communication with residents during crises.
In parallel, President Volodymyr Zelensky has asserted that Ukraine aims to prevent the expansion of hostilities onto Russian territory, a statement that the regional leadership monitors closely as it informs risk assessments and contingency planning. The Pskov administration remains focused on safeguarding critical infrastructure, protecting civilian life, and preserving social stability amid ongoing regional tensions. [Attribution: Regional Governor’s Office]