The targeted attack on a Russian news crew near Gorlovka, resulting in the death of a photographer and serious injuries to two others, has raised concerns at the Russian Foreign Ministry. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has accused Ukraine of actively targeting journalists, with the recent incident involving an NTV crew in Donbass being a prime example.
The crew, consisting of journalist Aleksey Ivliev, camera operator Valery Kozhin, and a Russian military escort, came under Ukrainian fire on Thursday morning near Gorlovka. Tragically, Kozhin succumbed to his injuries, sparking outrage at the deliberate nature of the attack.
Zakharova condemned the lack of response from international institutions towards the Ukrainian aggression, stating that their silence makes them complicit in these crimes. She highlighted the need for condemnation and accountability for such heinous acts, urging the UN, among others, to speak out against the targeting of journalists.
The spokeswoman emphasized that not only is Ukraine responsible for the bloodshed, but international bodies in Vienna, Geneva, Paris, and New York share the blame for their inaction. Zakharova called for a stronger stance from the UN Secretary-General’s office and hoped for a clear denouncement of the attack on the Russian journalists.
As the injured individuals were undergoing surgery, Zakharova’s comments underscored the gravity of the situation and the need for justice. Valery Kozhin, a veteran camera operator, had extensive experience in conflict zones such as Syria and the Donbass region. Aleksey Ivliev, the surviving journalist, has a long history of reporting on armed conflicts and environmental issues.
Moving forward, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones and the imperative for international bodies to uphold press freedom and protect media personnel from targeted attacks.
