A fire broke out at a Russian air base in Crimea, suspected to be the result of a Ukrainian missile strike. This base, integral to Moscow's operations in the region, has become a target amidst escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine over the occupied peninsula. Mikhail Razvozhayev, the appointed governor of Sevastopol, reported a significant missile attack over the port city overnight Tuesday.
Social media footage captured flames engulfing the Belbek airfield near Sevastopol, a strategic hub for Russia's Black Sea Fleet, which has repeatedly faced attacks from Ukrainian forces. While the authenticity of the footage remains unverified, reports from Krym Realii, associated with the U.S.-funded Radio Free Liberty network, suggest a coordinated assault involving multiple waves of attacks and explosions resembling detonations.
According to Krym Realii, the airfield housed various military aircraft, including Sukhoi Su-27 and Su-30M2 jets, totaling 32 aircraft. The extent of damage to these aircraft remains unclear, and the cause of the fire is yet to be determined definitively.
Speculation surrounds the origin of the missiles, with conflicting reports suggesting launches from different locations, possibly to evade detection. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted a significant portion of the incoming missiles, although local residents reported a substantial number of missiles fired.
Explosions were also reported in nearby districts, and satellite imagery revealed multiple fires around the airfield. Additionally, there are unverified claims by Russian sources of intercepting various types of missiles and drones, though official statements from both Russian and Ukrainian defense ministries are awaited for confirmation.
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