A major gas pipeline between Ukraine and Russia has been hit by a blast.

No-one was injured in the explosion, but flames could be seen erupting the Urengoy-Pomary-Uzhgorod Pipeline in central Ukraine for miles around.

The cause of the explosion is not yet clear, with some commentators already blaming terrorism, while AFP reports that it was likely due to a puncture or loss of pressure in the pipeline.

The explosion follows continued tensions between Ukraine and neighbouring Russia, which cut gas supplies into the country on Monday in a dispute over payments.

Gas exports to Europe have not been affected by the blast, with a parallel pipeline working normally, accoridng to Russian energy giant Gazprom.