A fire broke out at 09:31 am local time in the trade center named “Grand Setun Plaza” in Russian capital city of Moscow. Upon the fire alarm, large number of firefighters and rescue teams affiliated to the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia (EMERCOM) were dispatched to the scene. 180 personnel and 41 fire extinguishers were intervened the fire and 120 people that trapped inside were rescued from the burning building. While 2 of the rescued were transferred to hospitals by ambulances, it’s announced that about 20 people trying to escape from the flames that started on the first floor of the 10-storey trade center, fled to the upper floors and their evacuation continues. EMERCOM announced that the fire that broke out in the trade center was completely extinguished after about 2 hours of work, and that the cooling efforts is continues. In the statement, it’s told that a Ka-32 type fire extinguishing helicopter was also sent to the scene. In addition, plaza employees stated that after the flames spreading to the first 4 floors were completely extinguished and the evacuation of those who took shelter in the upper floors began. It was stated that an investigation was launched regarding the cause of the fire, which spread over an area of 1,100 square meters, and it hasn’t been determined yet whether the incident was sabotage. According to the first determinations, it’s announced that a short circuit in the power lines of the business center could cause a fire.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.
Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.
Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.
TR