Russian embassy assists more than 400 passengers diverted to Minsk

More than 400 passengers on two charter flights operated by Turkish carriers were diverted to Minsk because of restrictions at Russian airports, Russia's embassy in Belarus said as it provided assistance.

Ambassador Boris Gryzlov and embassy staff were at Minsk National Airport, the mission said. Passengers were offered free hot meals, while diplomats examined options for their return to Russia.

St Petersburg's Pulkovo Airport stopped handling arrivals and departures for more than six hours overnight into October 18 because of a drone attack. It subsequently resumed operations under an adjusted schedule.

The airport's 11:00 Moscow time update put delays at more than 50 flights, with 26 departures cancelled and 13 aircraft previously diverted to alternative airports.