News outlets and witnesses reported that several journalists were among those injured during the night-time hostilities in Donetsk, as described in a formal statement released by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The document indicates that a number of casualties have been confirmed, with more than a dozen individuals currently listed as injured. Russian officials asserted that a portion of the injured are journalists who are actively engaged in professional reporting within the city, emphasizing that media personnel were caught in the crossfire amid the ongoing violence.
The ministry urged governments and international organizations to condemn the actions attributed to Ukrainian authorities, arguing that these events constitute crimes against civilians. In its release, the Foreign Ministry called for a clear and collective response to what it described as assaults on non-combatants, stressing the importance of accountability and adherence to international humanitarian norms during armed conflict. The statement framed the incidents as part of a broader pattern of violence that impacts everyday life and civilian safety in the region.
On the morning of January 1, the Russian Investigative Committee announced the opening of a criminal inquiry into possible crimes carried out by the Armed Forces of Ukraine against civilians in the Donetsk People’s Republic and the adjacent Belgorod region. The committee stated that investigators would pursue all necessary lines of inquiry, gather evidence, and work to determine the full scope of any wrongdoing. Officials indicated that the investigation would examine claims of harm to civilian residents and the disruption of essential services resulting from military actions in the area.
Reports from the same period say that Ukrainian forces conducted strikes using multiple launch rocket systems, with a volley of rockets aimed at Donetsk occurring shortly after the New Year. Observers described the attack as intensifying the humanitarian strain already faced by the city’s residents, adding to the difficulties of daily life and the risk faced by civilians who strive to carry out ordinary activities amid the conflict. Local authorities and international observers have called for de-escalation and safer conditions for civilians, while noting the need for careful verification of casualty figures as the situation develops.
Earlier, the Russian foreign ministry spokesperson responded to the Donetsk bombardment, reacting to the specifics of the New Year’s Eve attacks and underscoring the ongoing concern about civilian harm. The remarks highlighted a sense of urgency in addressing the human toll of the fighting and reinforced appeals for accountability and international concern over the reported strikes. The exchanges reflect the persistent tension surrounding the conflict and the differing narratives presented by the involved parties as the region continues to experience security challenges and displacement concerns that affect families and communities alike. Source: Russian Foreign Ministry.