Russian Bombing Targets Blood Transfusion Centre in Ukraine
In a disturbing development, a blood transfusion centre in north-eastern Ukraine has been targeted by a Russian “guided bomb,” resulting in casualties and fatalities, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The attack occurred in the Kharkiv region, although President Zelensky did not provide specific details regarding the number of people affected.
President Zelensky has condemned the attack as a “war crime” and a clear indication of Russian aggression. However, Russia has not yet responded or commented on the allegations. The country has consistently denied any accusations of intentionally targeting civilians or committing war crimes.
As of now, the claims made by President Zelensky have not been independently verified by the BBC or other sources. Additional reports suggest that the attack took place in the Kupiansk area, which had previously been occupied by Russian forces during the initial stages of the invasion in February 2022. However, Ukrainian forces managed to liberate the area during a counter-offensive in September last year.
President Zelensky took to social media to express his outrage, describing the perpetrators as “beasts.” He emphasized the importance of defeating terrorists and protecting human life.
In addition to the blood transfusion centre attack, President Zelensky revealed that Russia had separately conducted a missile strike on a company called Motor Sich in the Khmelnytskyi region. This recent escalation follows Russia’s accusation that Ukraine targeted a Russian tanker with a sea drone in the Black Sea, the second such attack in two consecutive days. Russian maritime officials reported damage to the Sig tanker’s engine room in the Kerch Strait, a waterway that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
While Ukraine has not officially responded to the allegations, a source from the Ukrainian security service confirmed the use of a sea drone in the attack.
The situation in Ukraine remains tense as both sides continue to exchange accusations and engage in military actions. The international community closely watches these developments, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.