Kyiv, Aug 29 (V7N)- At least 37 people have been killed in a massive explosion at an ammunition depot near the Ukrainian capital Kyiv after a Russian drone strike, Reuters reported.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the death toll on Saturday and warned that action would be taken against those responsible for any possible negligence.
According to local residents, the attack took place on Friday night near the village of Mila. The drone strike on the military facility was followed by a series of explosions and a fire. Several people were injured and hundreds of residents were evacuated from the area.
Nearby residential buildings, infrastructure and a facility for elderly and disabled people were also damaged. The head of a nearby village was among those killed after reportedly going to the scene to assist with rescue operations.
Zelensky said the facility contained various types of military supplies, including ammunition, mines and drones. He said the incident was the second such explosion at an arms depot in two months.
Earlier, an explosion at an arms depot following a Russian attack in the town of Vishnev killed 10 people and damaged hundreds of homes.
Zelensky said a criminal investigation has been launched over possible negligence by government officials. Ukraine's Defense Ministry has also ordered security audits at all weapons storage facilities.
Meanwhile, Russian drone attacks continued for a third consecutive day in Kyiv and surrounding areas. Ukrainian authorities said a 14-year-old girl and a two-year-old child were killed in Saturday's attacks.
Several residential buildings and warehouses were also damaged. Ukrainian officials have accused Moscow of intensifying drone attacks in an effort to disrupt normal life in the capital.
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