Night Tensions in Annexed Crimea: Large Fire at Oil Depot and Explosions in Simferopol
On the night of October 17, the temporarily occupied Crimean peninsula experienced a tense and chaotic situation that drew the attention of locals and the international community.
According to reports, drones launched from unknown sources targeted an area near Gvardeyske in the Simferopol district, causing a massive fire at Crimea’s largest oil depot, owned by the company Kedr, which operates the ATAN chain of gas stations.
Eyewitnesses recorded several explosions around 02:40 a.m., after which the fire significantly expanded.
In addition to the damage to the oil depot, there are reports of a potential strike on an ammunition warehouse located nearby.
By around 06:20 a.m., a series of powerful blasts rocked Simferopol, further worsening the situation.
The occupation authorities have yet to issue an official comment, fueling rumors and uncertainty in the region.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions amid the broader conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the volatile security situation in the region amidst ongoing hostilities.