Russian Attack on Humanitarian Demining Mission Sparks International Outcry and Calls for Action
Last week, Ukrainian authorities and international organizations reported a new act of aggression by Russia, which once again demonstrates blatant disregard for international norms and humanitarian law.
Near the city of Chernihiv, Russian forces launched an attack on an area where employees of a humanitarian demining mission, funded by the Danish Refugee Council, were operating.
According to Ukrainian officials and local authorities, the strike resulted in the deaths of two civilians and injured five others.
Reports indicate that Russian troops deliberately targeted demining personnel, possibly in retaliation for a Ukrainian drone attack against Russian military units.
The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have destroyed 10 militants and 8 vehicles equipped with UAV launchers, although these claims remain unverified by Ukrainian sources.
In response, Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets urged the international community to condemn and respond to these crimes.
He emphasized that the attack is not only a blatant violation of fundamental international laws but also a cynical attack on civilians performing humanitarian work.
‘Today, near Chernihiv, Russians again targeted demining workers involved in saving lives and restoring peace, thus putting humanitarian efforts at grave risk.
This act of barbarism and impunity demands a firm response from the global community,’ Lubinets stated.
The international community is called to intensify efforts to hold Russia accountable and to protect humanitarian workers, reaffirming the importance of respecting diplomatic norms and human rights amidst ongoing hostilities.