On September 18, a significant strike on an ammunition depot in Toropets, Tver Oblast, resulted in the destruction of crucial Russian military supplies, potentially impacting the frontlines in the coming weeks. Estonian Defence Forces’ Intelligence Chief, Colonel Ants Kiviselg, shared these insights, estimating that the loss would be felt by Russian forces soon.
Colonel Kiviselg stated that additional ammunition that had not yet been stored in the depot was transported by train just before the attack. The strike destroyed 30,000 tons of ammunition, including 750,000 shells. Given Russia’s current usage rate of about 10,000 shells per week, the loss is equivalent to two to three months’ worth of supplies.
The strike, carried out by Ukrainian forces, targeted a large warehouse containing missiles, mines, and bullets, including KN23 missiles supplied by North Korea. The aftermath of the attack is visible from satellite imagery, showcasing the scale of the damage.
The UK Ministry of Defence also commented on the incident, likening the explosion’s magnitude to that of an earthquake.