AT least 63 people are feared dead after a Russian IL-76 military plane crashed near the Ukrainian border.
Dramatic footage shows the crash near Belgorod sparking a massive fireball as black smoke can be seen billowing in the sky.
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The video shows the plane out of control and lurching towards the ground before it smashes to the ground in a huge explosion.
A total of 63 people were believed to be on the aircraft.
The cause of the crash and explosion remain unknown amid unconfirmed reports the aircraft was already on fire as it came down.
Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov confirmed the crash and said: “Currently, an investigation team and employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations are working on the spot.
“ I have changed my work schedule and gone to the area. All details later.”
Starsche Eddypro-war Telegram channel said: “Judging by the video, the Il-76 military transport aircraft was on fire before the fall.
“Fre is visible in the area of the left engine.
“According to our data, there were preliminary 63 people on board the crashed Il-76 near Belgorod. Their fate is being determined.”
Earlier there had been a missile threat in the Belgorod region and claims Russian air defences shot down an aircraft-style drone flown from Ukraine.
The crash was close to Krivoy Khutor village in Korochansky district.
It is about 57 miles from the border with Ukraine and 40 miles northeast of Belgorod, the regional capital.
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