Another Setback for Putin as Workers Poisoned

Vladimir Putin faces a new crisis as 14 workers from the DK Engine-Building Production Association in Ufa, Bashkortostan, are hospitalized due to food poisoning. This factory is a key part of Russia’s military-industrial complex, producing and maintaining aircraft and helicopters for the Russian military. In total, 21 people have reported illness, prompting swift medical attention.

Authorities suspect the outbreak is caused by norovirus, which typically spreads through contaminated food or water. Experts from the Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology are testing food samples eaten by the employees. This incident piles more pressure on Putin, following recent drone strikes on a Russian naval base in Dagestan, which reportedly damaged several vessels.

The poisoning incident deals another blow to Russia’s defense sector amid ongoing struggles and rising tensions in the region.