Authorities in the southern Rostov region of Russia are facing challenges as they work to extinguish a massive fire at an oil depot in the town of Proletarsk. The fire, which has been burning for three days, has engulfed an area of 10,000 square meters. Reports from Russian state news agencies indicate that 500 firefighters are involved in the operation, with 41 of them already hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the firefighting efforts.
The incident was triggered by a drone attack carried out by Ukrainian forces, as part of their push into Russia's Kursk region. The oil depot targeted in the attack was a crucial supply point for Russia's military operations. Ukrainian Army General Staff has claimed responsibility for the strike, citing it as a strategic move to weaken Russia's military and economic capabilities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the success of the incursion into the Kursk region, highlighting the capture of a significant number of Russian prisoners. The operation has resulted in the seizure of 1,250 square kilometers and 92 settlements in Russia's Kursk region. Zelenskyy emphasized that the mission aims to create a buffer zone to deter further Russian aggression, particularly with advanced weaponry like long-range artillery and missiles.
While celebrating victories in Kursk, Ukrainian forces are facing challenges in the Donbas region, where Russian forces are advancing towards the city of Pokrovsk. The city, a key defensive stronghold for Ukraine, is under threat of falling to Russian control, which would severely impact Ukraine's defensive capabilities and supply routes in the region.
Russia's ongoing offensive in Ukraine's Donetsk region has inflicted heavy casualties on Ukrainian troops and equipment. The relentless assault has forced Ukrainian defenders to retreat from strategic positions, as they struggle to withstand the onslaught of Russian artillery and bombs.
The situation in the Donbas region remains tense, with Russia aiming to gain control over Donetsk and neighboring Luhansk, key industrial areas in eastern Ukraine. The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides engaged in a protracted struggle for dominance in the region.
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