An explosion has struck Russian consulate in Marseille, France, after three projectiles were thrown over the perimeter wall.
UK Mirror reports that the development has triggered a massive emergency response as firefighters battled a blaze inside the diplomatic building.
The explosion occurred on Monday within the consulate premises, prompting an immediate lockdown.
Special police forces, including soldiers, quickly moved to secure the area to ensure the safety of personnel and residents in the vicinity.
Russian Consul General confirmed the blast originated inside the consulate, with firefighters rushing in to contain the fire. By 9:30 am, approximately 30 emergency workers were engaged in firefighting and rescue efforts.
The explosion comes on the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and coincides with French President Emmanuel Macron’s emergency visit to Washington, D.C., where he is set to discuss the ongoing war with United States President Donald Trump.
Russia’s state-run news agency TASS reported that the Russian Foreign Ministry has described the explosion as having the characteristics of a “terrorist attack” and has urged French authorities to conduct a thorough investigation.
Photos and videos from the scene showed emergency services lined up outside the consulate, with thick smoke billowing from the building.
The Russian Foreign Ministry also demanded a thorough investigation from French authorities.