Kyiv, March 21 (QNA) – Ukraine’s defense ministry said that an explosion in the north of Crimea has destroyed Russian missiles being transported by rail.

Kyiv said the missiles had been intended for use by Russia’s Black Sea fleet.

The missiles, designed to be launched from surface ships in Russia’s Black Sea fleet, had an operational range of more than 2,500 km on land and 375 km at sea.

There was no confirmation from the Russian side that the missiles had been destroyed.

Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, which it said was aimed at “protecting the population of the Donbas region.” The operation is still going one despite the widespread condemnation and the West’s harsh sanctions against Russia.

In March 2014, Russia annexed Crimea to its territory following a unilateral referendum, which was not recognized by the international community. The step prompted sanctions by the European Union. (QNA)

Source: Qatar News Agency