Russian online retailer Wildberries faces potential losses exceeding 100 billion rubles following Ukrainian drone strikes on its warehouses.

Ukrainian drone strikes on Wildberries warehouses have caused significant financial damage, with direct losses estimated to exceed 100 billion rubles. Market sources suggest that in a worst-case scenario, these losses could reach 200 billion rubles. The company now faces a period of projected unprofitability as it deals with declining turnover and the potential migration of sellers to other platforms.

Business model and financial strain

Wildberries operates by collecting payments from buyers immediately while delaying payments to sellers, using the held cash as working capital. This model relies on consistent turnover growth to cover expenses. With turnover expected to drop by at least 25 percent, the company faces a risk of delayed payments to sellers and mounting losses. By the end of 2025, the company had already exceeded 1.3 trillion rubles in debt.

Government intervention and support

While the company faces severe financial challenges, sources indicate that Russian authorities are unlikely to allow it to collapse. Government discussions have reportedly focused on supporting sellers through potential credit or tax holidays. There have also been reports of discussions regarding preferential loans for Wildberries, possibly involving VTB, though the specific rescue plan remains unclear.