A state of emergency has been declared in Saransk, the capital of Mordovia, following a drone attack on one of the region's enterprises during the night of April 4-5, 2025. The announcement was made by Artem Zdunov, the head of the Republic of Mordovia, through his Telegram channel on April 5. The decision to implement this emergency measure was taken to ensure the safety of local residents.
In his message, Zdunov emphasized the preparedness of all emergency services, stating, "It is important that all services have repeatedly practiced actions under the state of emergency; everyone is working in a coordinated manner, and each knows their responsibilities." This coordinated response is crucial in times of crisis, where rapid action can mitigate potential harm.
Residents from nearby houses, as well as social institutions, are being relocated to temporary accommodation facilities. At these sites, medical personnel and psychologists are available to assist those affected by the incident. Zdunov assured the public that everyone being moved will be provided with necessary support and supplies. "We will ensure that everything necessary is provided," he affirmed.
The drone attack, which targeted a local enterprise, reportedly caused no injuries. Emergency services are currently on-site to assess damage and ensure safety measures are in place. Zdunov mentioned that specialists are actively working to evaluate the situation, stating, "Experts are conducting work to ensure safety and assess damages." This proactive approach aims to restore normalcy as quickly as possible.
In a wider context, the Ministry of Defense of Russia reported that during the night of April 4-5, a total of 49 Ukrainian drones were intercepted and destroyed over nine regions, including three over Mordovia. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and security challenges faced by the region, as well as the effectiveness of the air defense systems in place.
In addition to the events in Mordovia, other regions also experienced drone activity. For instance, 16 drones were shot down over the Voronezh region, 14 over Belgorod, six over Kursk, and six over Samara. Moreover, one drone was neutralized in each of the Bryansk, Lipetsk, Orel, and Penza regions. These figures underscore the extensive nature of the drone threats currently being faced.
In the Samara region, an industrial enterprise in Chapaevsk was also attacked by drones, resulting in a fire. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries in this incident either, according to Governor Vyacheslav Fedorishchev.
As the situation continues to develop, local authorities are focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. Zdunov has urged citizens to remain calm and to adhere to the recommendations provided by emergency personnel. He provided contact information for emergency services, including the unified emergency number 112, and specific contacts for the Federal Security Service and the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Mordovia.
In summary, the declaration of a state of emergency in Saransk is a direct response to the drone attack, reflecting the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate action to protect residents. The coordinated efforts of emergency services and the provision of support to those affected are vital as the region navigates this challenging time.
