Last updated on August 22, 2024
The oil depot in Proletarsk, Rostov region of Russia, has been burning for four relentless days following a drone attack on August 18. The situation has escalated to such a degree that in addition to over 500 rescuers, even clergymen have been called upon to aid in extinguishing the flames. Despite their efforts, the fire remains unquenched, with 42 firefighters reported injured—15 of whom have been hospitalized.
Russian media reports show priests conducting a prayer service against the backdrop of the still-raging fire at the Rosrezerves storage facility, where the blaze began. The attack, attributed to a Ukrainian intelligence operation, targeted a depot critical to the Russian military-industrial complex. Locals describe the scene as apocalyptic, with black smoke enveloping the city and making breathing increasingly difficult.
The persistence of the fire, despite the extensive firefighting and spiritual efforts, underscores the severity of the situation. The effectiveness of the response—both earthly and divine—remains in question as the fire rages on.