French journalist Lallikan killed on Donbas during Russian strike, French anti-terrorist office launches investigation
The investigation into the death of French photojournalist Anthony Lallikan, who was killed on the Donbas during a Russian drone strike, has been initiated by France’s National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor’s Office.
The event is being classified as a war crime, which involves deliberate attacks on civilians and journalists protected under international humanitarian law.
The incident occurred amidst ongoing hostilities in eastern Ukraine, where Lallikan had been documenting the destruction and consequences of the war.
Known for his work published in leading European media outlets, Lallikan was an acclaimed Paris-based photojournalist who gained international recognition for his coverage of the Russian aggression.
Awarded the Victor Hugo Prize in January 2025 for his reportage “Suddenly the Sky Went Dark,” he dedicated his career to highlighting the human toll of conflict.
His death was confirmed on October 4, along with injuries sustained by Ukrainian journalist Georgiy Ivanchenko.
Both journalists were wearing protective gear and vests marked “Press” at the time of the attack.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the act, asserting it was a deliberate assault aimed at silencing those reporting on Russian aggression and highlighting its brutality.