Explosions near Mariupol: Russian aircraft allegedly downed

Petro Adriushchenko, an advisor to the Mayor of Mariupol, reported the information on Telegram.

According to the adviser, two explosions occurred, followed by the downing of an aerial target over the Prymorskyi district of Mariupol near Rybatske village. 

The Mariupol district has confirmed the crash near Rybatske village. 

However, currently, it is impossible to determine the exact location of the crash. All entrances and approaches to the area have been cordoned off due to the significant concentration of Russian forces in the area.

“Given the experience of our sources of information, the object in question is likely either an enemy aircraft or an aircraft-type UAV, with the size of an aircraft. We'll defer to our air force for a conclusive assessment. They will identify the nature of the object. The observed reactions from the Russian side give us hope for positive developments. We will keep you updated as soon as we have more information,” the advisor wrote.

Subsequently, he added that “The air target was shot down on its way back from Donetsk in the direction of Prymorsko-Akhtarsk (Eisk). Prior to that, they observed the approach of aircraft from Prymorsko-Akhtarsk towards Donetsk.”

Earlier, Adriushchenko reported the alleged downing near Rybatske village.

“Mariupol. It's not just loud, it's fire! A burning aircraft is reported to have crashed near Rybatske village. In addition, the city continues to hear explosions,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Russian Telegram channels claim air defense operation and that the downed air target was a Ukrainian ATACMS missile.

The news is to be updated...