On 23 October, a drone explosion site was discovered in a remote area of northern Kazakhstan, more than 1,200 kilometers from Ukraine’s frontline, in a district bordering Russia’s Orenburg Oblast — where Ukrainian drones struck a Gazprom gas-processing facility on 19 October. Photos from the scene show drone fragments, including a part with Ukrainian-language markings. Kazakhstan launched an investigation.

Explosion of unknown drone reported in Kazakhstan near Russian border

A drone of unknown origin exploded on 23 October in Börılı District of West Kazakhstan Oblast, according to the country’s Ministry of Defense. The blast occurred in a remote area, far from residential zones. No casualties or property damage were reported.

The Defense Ministry confirmed that authorized state agencies have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident and the drone’s origin.

"Consultations are underway with foreign partners who may potentially own these aircraft," the Kazakhstan Defense Ministry wote.

The Ministry also announced additional measures to strengthen airspace monitoring and prevent unauthorized crossings of Kazakhstan’s borders by aerial objects.

Ukrainian-language markings visible on debris

The same day, Kazakh Telegram channel Orda published photos from the explosion site showing a crater, what appears to be part of a drone’s engine, a quadcopter-like frame, and two other parts, one of which labeled in Ukrainian: “Don’t touch! Movable part.” 

The Kazakhstan Ministry of Defense did not comment on any identifying features or possible origin of the drone.