In a recent escalation of tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow has accused Kyiv of damaging a now-defunct ammonia pipeline, resulting in the release of toxic gas into the atmosphere. The incident reportedly occurred in the eastern Donetsk region, specifically in the village of Rusin Yar, which lies close to the frontline.
According to the Russian defense ministry, the pipeline was blown up during Ukraine’s withdrawal from the area at approximately 1:05 PM local time on October 9, 2025. The ministry claimed that the destruction led to the leakage of ammonia residues from the damaged segment of the pipeline. Russia alleges that this act was an attempt by Ukraine to impede its military advances in the region.
Forensic evidence was presented in the form of a video released by Russian authorities, which purportedly showed plumes of a chemical compound emanating from the ground where the pipeline was located.
Ukrainian officials have acknowledged that the pipeline was “damaged,” but have not specified the cause of the incident. In a statement on Telegram, the military administration for the Donetsk region assured the public that the situation did not pose a threat to the safety of local residents.
Historically, ammonia has been a crucial component in the production of fertilizers. Prior to the ongoing conflict, the Tolyatti-Odesa pipeline was utilized to transport millions of tons of ammonia from Tolyatti, Russia, to Ukrainian Black Sea ports. However, operations ceased shortly after Russia commenced its military offensive against Ukraine in early 2022.
This incident marks another chapter in the ongoing narrative of accusations that have emerged from both sides regarding the rupturing of the pipeline, a topic that sparked controversy previously in 2023. As the conflict persists, both nations continue to point fingers at one another over such incidents, further complicating an already volatile situation.
