Igor Plotnytsky, the leader of independence-seeking insurgents in Ukraine's eastern Lugansk region, was severely wounded in an explosion Saturday morning, local media reported.

Plotnytsky, leader of the self-proclaimed Lugansk People's Republic, was injured when an explosive device went off near his car, according to a statement published by the insurgent-run Lugansk information center.

Several others have also been injured in the blast, the statement said.

Later in the day, Yury Tandyt, the aid to the head of the Ukrainian Security Service, confirmed that Plotnytsky was in serious condition in the hospital after an apparent attempt on his life.uncertainty in the restive region, officials said Wednesday.

Source : XINHUA