On 10 March, numerous explosions were heard in Mariupol occupied by the Russians, an advisor to the mayor of Mariupol, Petro Andryushchenko, has said.
"At about 15:56 there were about 10 explosions, then four more in five minutes and six more in 15 minutes. Perhaps the latest booms are related to the detonation," Andryushchenko said.
He added that immediately after the explosions in Kalmiuskyy District, mobile communication went off.
A helicopter was flown into the air in one of the neighbourhoods of Illich Iron and Steel Works, and small arms shootouts started at the same time.
Andryushchenko also added that smoke rose over the plant in the direction of Kamyanske/St. Krym, which disappeared in about 20 minutes.
Russian soldiers filled the streets on Metalruhiv Avenue and Nikopolsky Avenue.
Russian public groups also reported that air defence systems were at work and that "planes were breaking the sound barrier". However, in 10 minutes all messages were deleted and city chats were cleared.