Ukraine: Munitions depot explosion near Kalynivka Sep. 26

Event

On Tuesday evening, September 26, a fire set off a series of explosions at a munitions depot near the city of Kalynivka, located 190 km (120 mi) west of Kiev, injuring at least one person. Some 30,000 people were evacuated from nearby villages and both electricity and gas supplies were temporarily cut off. According to local media, nearby ground transportation was temporarily halted and a 50-km (30-mi) no-fly-zone was enforced.

As of Wednesday morning, the blaze is said to be contained, although munitions were still reportedly detonating at the base. The incident is currently being treated as an act of sabotage, with possible ties to the eastern separatist conflict.

Context

The ongoing armed conflict in Ukraine between pro-Russian rebel groups and Ukrainian armed forces has plagued the Donbass region of eastern Ukraine since 2014. The Ukrainian government has repeatedly accused Russia of funding and actively aiding separatist groups.

Advice

Individuals in the area are advised to remain vigilant, avoid the area, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.