Ukraine’s President Zelensky has strongly condemned a devastating attack on Kostyantynivka, calling it a “deliberate” assault on a “peaceful city.” The explosion occurred in the middle of the day on a busy market street, an unusual target, resulting in the deaths of at least 17 people, including a child.
Kostyantynivka, situated in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region near the front line, witnessed a bright orange explosion captured in videos circulating on social media. President Zelensky has squarely blamed Moscow for the attack, emphasizing that the victims were “people who did nothing wrong.”
The blast has left at least 32 people injured, and reports indicate that a market, pharmacy, and shops were struck, leading to a contained fire.
Ukraine’s Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko confirmed that the search and rescue operation had concluded as of 18:00 local time. Investigations into the attack are underway, with Ukraine’s prosecutor-general’s office pursuing “criminal proceedings for violation of the laws and customs of war.”
Russian officials have not claimed responsibility for the attack, but they have previously denied targeting civilians during their military offensive. Kostyantynivka, situated near the battlefield, has suffered multiple attacks this year, causing casualties and damage.
The attack coincided with a visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Ukraine, during which he pledged additional support for Ukraine’s military and economy.
