Ukrainian strikes force relocation of Valdai Club from Sochi

The Valdai Discussion Club, a key Kremlin-affiliated forum, moved its 2026 meeting from Sochi to an undisclosed location at the last minute, reportedly due to Ukrainian attacks on the Black Sea coast. This marks a tangible disruption of a high-profile Russian state event, signaling that Ukrainian strike capabilities are affecting even symbolic political gatherings. The relocation underscores the security environment in Sochi and may reflect broader concerns about the safety of Russian leadership events.