Perevalne, Crimea — A fire erupted at an ammunition depot in the village of Perevalne following a series of explosions attributed to a drone attack early on May 16. Local residents reported seeing smoke rising throughout the area, according to the Crimean Wind Telegram channel.
The 126th Separate Coastal Defense Brigade of the Russian Black Sea Fleet is based near Perevalne. In response to the incident, authorities sealed off the road linking Simferopol with Alushta, heightening security measures across the region.
Footage shared by witnesses illustrated the widespread impact of the blasts, showing plumes of smoke billowing from various sites in Crimea. Explosions were also recorded near military airfields in Sevastopol, as well as locations such as Cape Fiolent, Balaklava, and Bakhchisarai.
The Russian-installed leader of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhayev, attributed the sounds of the explosions to the actions of Russian military forces. He stated that six drones were intercepted over the peninsula, adding that there were no reports of damage or casualties from the attack.
While Ukrainian authorities have yet to comment on the reported attacks, they have previously conducted numerous successful operations targeting Russian military assets in occupied Crimea. These operations have significantly diminished the operational capabilities of the Russian Black Sea Fleet throughout the ongoing conflict.
Reports of heightened military activity continue to surface, reflecting a broader pattern of aggression in the region. Since the outset of the war, Ukraine has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to strike back, signaling that the conflict remains far from over.
As the situation in Crimea evolves, local and international observers remain vigilant, monitoring developments that could further escalate tensions between Russia and Ukraine.