Russian Region Evacuated After Ukrainian Drone Attack Sparks Fire
In a dramatic turn of events, a partial evacuation has been mandated in Russia’s Tver region following a “massive” Ukrainian drone assault that ignited a fire, as disclosed by the local governor.
The governor, Igor Rudenya, revealed that emergency services in the town of Toropets are working tirelessly to contain the blaze triggered by the wreckage of the downed drones. The extent of any casualties remains undisclosed.
Footage circulating online depicts a colossal explosion in the town, fueling unconfirmed rumors of a weapons depot being struck during the night.
Situated approximately 380km northwest of Moscow and 470km north of the Ukrainian border, Toropets is now at the epicenter of the escalating conflict.
Preparation for Evacuation
Authorities in Toropets wasted no time in preparing buses for the evacuation of residents, emphasizing that the situation is being closely monitored in the town, home to around 13,000 individuals.
Despite assurances that the town is “under control,” the exact number of evacuees has not been disclosed.
As a precaution, regional schools and kindergartens in the Tver region will remain closed on Wednesday, as reported by Russian state media.
Night of Attacks
Reports of overnight attacks have also emerged in the western regions of Bryansk, Kursk, Oryol, and Smolensk in Russia, with local officials confirming the downing of nearly 50 drones and two missiles.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian air defenses near Kyiv engaged in combat with incoming Russian drones, according to Serhiy Popko, head of the city’s military administration.
Further explosions were reported in Sumy, a northeastern Ukrainian city near the Russian border, though details on casualties remain scarce.
Unverified Claims
Both Russian and Ukrainian officials have released statements regarding the ongoing conflict, yet the veracity of these claims remains unconfirmed by independent sources.
Since Russian President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the situation continues to escalate with each passing day. — BBC
