Explosions targeting referendum organizers reported in Melitopol

Two explosions were reported on September 7, 2022, in the Russian-controlled city of Melitopol, Zaporizhzhia region.

The first took place at the headquarters of the "We are together with Russia" movement, which is preparing referendums in the occupied territories. This was reported by the head of the Russian-controlled administration, Vladimir Rogov, who called the incident a "terrorist attack" and blamed Ukraine for it. No one was injured in the attack.

The information about the explosion was confirmed by the mayor of Melitopol, Ivan Fedorov, who is now in Ukrainian-controlled territory. In his message, he referred to the damaged building as the United Russia headquarters and added, "one step further from the pseudo-referendum."

A separate incident was reported by Telegram channel Astra, which claimed there was another explosion in Melitopol. An improvised explosive device went off at the gate of a private house. No one was injured. Anna Shirokova, who calls herself a "member of the election commission," which was formed ahead of the referendum, lives in the house.

The Ukrainian military has not commented on the incidents.

• On September 5, the headquarters of the "We are with Russia" movement in Enerhodar was attacked with drones. The drones were shot down; no casualties were reported.

Follow Meduza in English on Twitter to stay up to date.