Dozens, including children killed in Kemerovo fire in RussiaMarch 26, 2018 - 10:52 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - At least 53 people have died in a fire that tore through a shopping and entertainment complex in the Siberian coal-mining city of Kemerovo, the BBC says. As many as 41 children may be among the victims, officials say, and more than 10 are listed as missing. The blaze started on an upper floor of the Winter Cherry complex while many of the victims were at the cinema. Video posted on social media showed people jumping from windows to escape the flames on Sunday, March 25. "According to preliminary information, the roof collapsed in two cinemas," Russia's Investigative Committee said in a statement. The cause of the fire is not yet known and authorities have launched an investigation. Some 660 emergency personnel were deployed in the rescue effort. Firefighters tackled the blaze for more than 17 hours. Kemerovo, a key coal-producing area, lies about 3,600km (2,200 miles) east of Moscow. In a message, Armenian president Serzh Sargsyan expressed condolences to his Russian counterpart over the deadly fire. Photo. Aleksander Patrin /RIA Novosti Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |