Russia-Ukraine war: 10 dead, 100 injured as Moscow strikes arms show near Kiev; details here | Today’s news

Russia staged an arms show near Kiev on Friday, killing at least 10 people and injuring a hundred, Ukrainian officials said, in an incident that raised questions about the safety of such events.

Ukrainian Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko announced a criminal investigation to determine “who decided to organize the event… and whether the risks were properly assessed under martial law”.

An AFP reporter saw at least five bodies covered in black sheets near the shooting range that hosted the event.

In the courtyard of the range, promotional tents were still standing with drones on display underneath, while a screen continuously played a promotional video for the arms company.

Behind the vehicle, a dead man lay on the ground with a bloody face as people gathered around him.

What did Russia say?

Russia, which has targeted Ukrainian training sites and military events throughout the war, said it struck an arms exhibition displaying “Ukrainian and foreign-made drones”.

Among the models on display were drones “used to strike civilian targets on Russian territory,” the company said.

The strike drew opposition from many Ukrainian defense industry and officials, some of whom suggested the action was poorly organized and demanded accountability.

Presidential adviser Sergiy Beskrestnov criticized event organizers who do not provide shelter and promote themselves on social networks.

The head of Ukraine’s state-backed defense group Brave1 reacts

Andriy Grycenyuk, head of Ukraine’s state-backed defense group Brave1, called on “everyone involved in the defense industry to urgently review and strengthen their security protocols.”

Local official Alla Lakhmaniuk expressed anger at the scene, telling AFP that the municipality had not given permission for the event.

“Everyone is very upset that such an event was held right next to residential housing … If you’re going to hold events like this, it needs to be in a safe place,” she said.

The houses right next to the shooting range were in ruins.

Scattered debris and burnt apples from the destroyed tree lay on the ground.

Natalie Pereval’s roof was badly damaged and the windows were broken, but she found some silver linings.

“The grandchildren were not at home at that time. I am very grateful to God,” she said, hugging the little black dog.