President Zelensky confirmed: “Three Ukrainians died in a traffic accident in France, children were injured
Authorities are working to assist and support the families.” In his evening address on June 13, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on the tragic consequences of a major car accident that occurred in France, claiming the lives of three Ukrainians. According to him, among the four deceased are adult Ukrainian citizens, and several others who were injured are currently fighting for their lives in French hospitals. The president shared details about this terrible incident on his Telegram channel, citing information from local authorities and diplomatic agencies. Zelensky emphasized that this tragedy happened while Ukrainian students and their mentors were returning from an educational exchange at a French boarding school located in the Brittany region. According to the Ukrainian president, the bus carrying children and adults was involved in an accident en route to Paris: during travel, it suddenly lost control and veered off the road. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that as a result of the crash, eight people sustained serious injuries, two of whom are in critical condition. The rest suffered minor and moderate injuries, most of whom are children. “Three Ukrainians died in this terrible tragedy. All other injured are currently under medical supervision and receiving necessary assistance,” Zelensky stated. He added that Ukrainian diplomatic services in France are already on the scene, ensuring communication with the families and loved ones of the victims. A team of Ukrainian consuls and diplomats, led by the Ukrainian ambassador to France, has immediately flown to the region to provide support and assistance. The head of state expressed gratitude to French rescue services for their compassion and professionalism. According to him, more than 50 rescue teams were involved in the large-scale operation, responding quickly and trying to transport the injured to the nearest hospitals. He sees this as a clear example of French solidarity and international responsibility. Zelensky noted that the office of French President Emmanuel Macron and local authorities are making every effort to control the situation and support Ukrainian citizens. “I sincerely sympathize with all the families whose loved ones have fallen victim to this misfortune, and I pray for the swift recovery of the injured children. We will go through this difficult period together and do everything possible to ensure that every Ukrainian who finds themselves in trouble abroad receives proper assistance,” the president said. Preliminary information indicates that the incident occurred around 12:00 local time on the A81 motorway near the town of Dégré, France. It was early morning when no special road conditions or traffic difficulties were expected. However, as a result of the unexpected accident, three adult women and one man died. Additionally, nine people sustained serious injuries, and 18 others suffered minor injuries. The exact circumstances and causes of the accident are currently being investigated by French law enforcement authorities. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with traveling abroad and the importance of following all safety rules while on the road. Ukrainian diplomats and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assure they will do their utmost to support the victims and their families and will continue monitoring the situation until the full details of the incident are clarified.