Tuesday 9 August 2022 02:37 PM Mushroom cloud seen rising near Russian military airbase in Crimea trends now Huge explosions rock Crimea: Mushroom cloud seen rising near Russian military airbase after 'multiple' blasts as shocked beach-goers watch on Eyewitnesses reported at least 12 distinct explosions in Novofedorivka, Crimea The explosions occurred in the direction of a Russian held military airbase The airbase is located more than 130 miles from nearest Ukrainian-held territory Source of the blasts has not yet been determined, according to Russian officials BREAKING: More to follow By David Averre For Mailonline Published: 14:26 BST, 9 August 2022 | Updated: 14:35 BST, 9 August 2022 Viewcomments Several explosions have rung out close to a military airbase in Russian-held Crimea, it has emerged today. At least 12 distinct explosions were reported by eyewitnesses, according to various sources, causing large plumes of thick, black smoke to snake from the direction of the base in Novofedorivka, Western Crimea. Russia annexed the peninsula from Ukraine in 2014 and has occupied the territory ever since despite widespread condemnation from much of the international community. The source of the explosions has not yet been determined. Novofedorivka is located more than 130 miles from the nearest part of mainland Ukraine not occupied by Putin's troops. Videos shared on the Telegram messaging app showed the aftermath of the explosions, with tourists fleeing from a nearby beach and police urging people to take cover. Oleg Kryuchkov, an advisor to the head of the Russian-occupied peninsula, refused to speculate on the incident, telling Russia's RIA Novosti: 'So far, I can only confirm the fact that several explosions occurred in the Novofedorivka area. 'I ask everyone to wait for official messages and not to produce their own version of events.' Sergei Aksyonov, the head administrator of the region, is reportedly making a visit to the blast site according to RIA. Large plumes of black smoke are seen snaking from the direction of the Novofedorivka airbase It is unclear whether the explosion emanated directly from the base itself At least 12 distinct explosions were reported by eyewitnesses, according to various sources Shocked beachgoers watched on as the smoke began billowing from the direction of the base Share or comment on this article: All rights reserved for this news site (dailymail) and under his responsibility