Explosions Rock Military Depot Near Moscow
On Tuesday, a series of explosions rocked a major military depot located east of Moscow, as reported by the Russian army. Officials attributed the incident to a fire sparked by safety violations occurring within the facility.
The Russian Defense Ministry stated that the fire spread throughout a military unit in the Vladimir region, resulting in the detonation of stored ammunition within the warehouse.
Casualties and Eyewitness Accounts
Following the explosions, local authorities reported that four individuals suffered injuries at the site in Barsovo. Eyewitness accounts shared on social media featured dramatic footage showing a colossal fireball shooting into the sky, accompanied by a loud and rattling explosion followed by thick clouds of smoke.
Emergency services were seen racing through the streets towards the explosion site, as numerous videos captured the chaos unfolding in the aftermath of the incident.
Investigation Underway
In the wake of the disaster, the Defense Ministry issued a statement indicating that preliminary assessments suggest a breach of safety standards in the handling of explosive materials led to the fire. In response, a special commission has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
This swift action highlights the seriousness with which authorities are treating the matter, given the potential dangers associated with military ammunition.
Evacuations and Emergency Response
Due to the continuing explosions, approximately 450 residents from nearby villages were evacuated for their safety, with an emergency declared in the Kirzhach district, situated roughly 130 kilometers (80 miles) northeast of Moscow.
This region has previously experienced its share of dangerous incidents, including a tragic explosion in the summer of 2022 that resulted in the deaths of five people.
History of Safety Concerns
The safety of the Barsovo depot has been a matter of concern for years. In March 2025, residents were evacuated after a drone attack endangered the facility.
A 2009 report published in Krasnaya Zvezda, the official army newspaper, indicated that the depot has the capacity to store over 250,000 tons of ammunition, raising significant safety questions.
