Large Explosion Rocks Russian Military Depot Near Moscow

A significant explosion at a military ammunition depot in the Vladimir region has led to a declaration of a state of emergency, causing the evacuation of nearby residents as the Russian military investigates the cause.

The explosion occurred on Tuesday at a defense facility in the Vladimir region, located east of Moscow, where a fire ignited in an ammunition warehouse. Military officials indicated that this incident, which resulted in detonations of stored ammunition, was due to alleged "safety violations." As a result, local authorities have declared a state of emergency in the Kirzhach district, prompting the evacuation of residents from surrounding villages.

Footage shared across various media platforms, including Russian and Ukrainian outlets, depicts the scene, showcasing towering flames and billowing smoke clouds emerging from the depot. The Russian defense ministry confirmed the event, stating that combustible materials had ignited at a military installation within the 51st Arsenal of the Main Missile and Artillery Directorate, approximately 130 kilometers northeast of Moscow.

The governor of the Vladimir region, Alexander Avdeyev, confirmed the blast and mentioned that further details would be provided later. He also cautioned journalists and local citizens against disseminating unofficial reports about the incident, threatening penalties for such actions.