Two new Russian attacks have caused the death of 19 people in Ukrainian territory in the last few hours. The latest occurred this afternoon in City of Odessain which at least eight dead and 18 injuredfollowing a new aerial bombardment by the Russian armed forces on this town on the shores of the Black Sea. Kiev had already suffered civilian casualties Sunday night against city of Sumiin the north-west of the country. There the missiles launched by the Russian army caused deaths eleven people, as well as 89 others injuredas confirmed by the Ukrainian authorities. The State Emergency Service, through a message on its Telegram account, reported that two children were among the victims.
“The inhumane Russians used ballistic missiles with cluster explosives, which had an enormous effect,” denounced the governor of Sumi, Volodimir Artiuj, regarding an attack on a “densely populated” residential area and “critical infrastructure” in a city of 269,000 inhabitants.
In the case of Odessa, the Russian offensive hit a building. The mayor of the city, Gennadi Trújanov, explained that the attack occurred against a commercial area. “People went on with their lives,” he lamented.
The first bombing Sumi It happened at 8.37pm local time caused damage to at least ten skyscrapersincludes the complaint from the Ukrainian Prosecutor’s Office. Russia launched a second attack at 00:10, “probably with a ballistic missile” against “critical infrastructure”.
The region’s prosecutor accuses Moscow’s troops of having used “war methods prohibited by international law” for the night offensive and announces the opening of an investigation for “violation of the laws and customs of war”.
Biden authorizes Kiev to use long-range American missiles on Russian territory
In this line, Joseph BorrellHigh Representative of the European Union, condemned on his social networks the “massive” attack by the Russian army against Ukrainian civilians“specifically targeting energy infrastructure, including nuclear, ahead of winter.” “Ukraine needs increased air defense,” said the head of EU diplomacy. This will be the priority that he will present to ministers at the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday and to the Defense Council this Monday in Brussels.
Ukrainian revenge
For its part, Russia made it public on Monday its troops shot down 59 drones launched by the Ukrainian army against its territorywithout reporting on casualties or material damage. Kiev’s main objective in the last few hours was the Bryansk province, where 45 planes were destroyed. Six more were destroyed in Kursk, three in Belgorod and Tula and two more in the Moscow region.
The Russian Ministry of Defense, through Telegram, accused Ukraine of “attempt to carry out terrorist attacks” against “targets in the Russian Federation”. The Ukrainian armed forces remain silent on these incursions which come just hours after the deaths of eleven people in a Russian missile strike in Sumi.
What are the long-term consequences of cluster munitions being used in civilian areas during conflicts like the one in Ukraine?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Conflict Studies Expert
Time.news Editor: Good day, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re discussing the recent spike in violence in Ukraine, particularly in light of the deadly Russian attacks in Odessa and Sumi. Joining us is Dr. Elena Vostrikov, an expert in conflict studies, with a focus on Eastern European security dynamics. Dr. Vostrikov, thank you for being here.
Dr. Elena Vostrikov: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we discuss these events and their implications.
Editor: The news reports indicate that the recent assaults resulted in 19 fatalities, with children among the victims. How do these attacks fit into the larger context of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine?
Dr. Vostrikov: Tragically, these attacks exemplify a shift towards more aggressive tactics in urban areas, which raises significant humanitarian concerns. The use of ballistic missiles in densely populated regions, as seen in Sumi, is particularly alarming. Many would argue this approach is a strategic effort to undermine civilian morale and disrupt daily life.
Editor: Governor Volodimir Artiuj condemned the use of ballistic missiles with cluster explosives. Can you explain the implications of such weaponry, particularly in populated areas?
Dr. Vostrikov: Absolutely. Cluster munitions are known for their indiscriminate nature, as they release multiple smaller bombs over a wide area. This indiscriminate approach not only causes immediate destruction but can also leave unexploded ordnance that poses long-term dangers to civilians. Such actions can be categorized as war crimes, given their violation of international humanitarian law.
Editor: We also saw an attack on Odessa targeting a commercial area, which seems to indicate a strategy of targeting civilian infrastructure. What does this reveal about Russia’s tactical approach?
Dr. Vostrikov: The assault on civilian centers demonstrates a clear intent to exert psychological pressure on the Ukrainian populace. By targeting places where people gather, like markets or residential buildings, Russia aims to create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. This strategy can potentially influence the political landscape in Ukraine and sow discord among the civilians about their government’s ability to protect them.
Editor: As mentioned, Ukrainian authorities are pursuing investigations into these attacks for violations of war laws. How effective can such legal actions be in the midst of ongoing conflict?
Dr. Vostrikov: While legal accountability is crucial and can set precedents for future conflicts, the immediate effectiveness during an active war is limited. Nonetheless, documenting violations serves to uphold international norms and can provide evidence for future prosecution at global tribunals such as the International Criminal Court. It also reinforces Ukraine’s narrative on international platforms.
Editor: given the ongoing nature of these attacks, what should the international community’s response be?
Dr. Vostrikov: There must be a multifaceted response. Heightened diplomatic pressure on Russia is essential, alongside increased military support to Ukraine to defend itself and protect civilians. Furthermore, an increased humanitarian response to aid those affected by such attacks is critical. Ultimately, the international community must remain vigilant and take a stand against these violations of human rights to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Vostrikov, for your insights. As the situation in Ukraine develops, it will be important to continue monitoring these dire circumstances and advocate for the protection of civilians.
Dr. Vostrikov: Thank you for having me. It’s imperative we keep this dialogue going.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in to this critical discussion. We will keep you updated on the situation in Ukraine as it evolves.
