Russia-Ukraine war: At least two people were killed after explosions occurred on the bridge connecting the Crimea Peninsula to Russia, following what Russian officials described as an 'emergency' on the bridge.
As the operation commenced on the Kerch bridge, traffic has been halted as reports of the explosions broke out, according to AP. Two deaths were confirmed by the health ministry in Russia’s Krasnodar area, while the daughter of the deceased was reportedly injured.
Russia's anti-terrorist committee has blamed the attack on 'Ukrainian special services' and said that a criminal investigation has been launched in the incident.
The bridge was ordered to be closed by Crimea's governor Sergei Aksyonov on Monday. The extent of the damage on the 19 km-long bridge connecting Crimea with Russia is yet to be known. The bridge was opened up in 2018.
According to the Aksyonov, law enforcement agencies and all responsible services are working on the bridge to restore the situation. He also asked citizens to use an alternative routes.
The Kerch bridge was severely damaged in October 2022 by a truck bomb and required months of repairs before resuming full service.
The Russia-Ukraine war is well past the 500 day-mark, since Russia invaded the latter on February 2022. Scores of missile attacks and intense fighting have resulted in the deaths of scores of civilians from both sides, along with massive civilian casualties.
(with agency inputs)
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