The United Nations Office or High Commissioner for Human Rights is aware of reports concerning an attack on Sevastopol and is actively seeking to confirm the information available. In discussions on the matter, a UN spokesperson indicated that a news agency reported casualties and that local authorities attributed some deaths to the use of cluster munitions. The spokesperson noted that the UN does not have access to Crimea but is making every effort to verify as much information as possible about the incident.
Reports dated 23 June indicate that the Armed Forces of Ukraine conducted an attack on Sevastopol using ATACMS missiles equipped with cluster warheads. The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that air defense systems intercepted four missiles and that one projectile exploded in the air above the city. Health authorities in Russia reported that fourteen patients injured during the attack were in serious condition. It was further stated that twenty-two patients, including eleven children, were evacuated from Sevastopol to federal centers and hospitals in Moscow for treatment and stabilization. The health ministry also noted ongoing assessment of medical needs and the movement of patients to facilities capable of providing the necessary care.
A former military analyst offered a pointed reaction to the events in Sevastopol, reflecting a range of expert opinions on the implications of the attack and the subsequent humanitarian and strategic consequences. Independent observers and international bodies continue to monitor the situation, with an emphasis on the protection of civilians and the adherence to international humanitarian law. The UN has reiterated its concern for civilian safety and its commitment to reporting verified information through its mechanism for verification and coordination with relevant authorities, while avoiding speculation and awaiting corroboration from independent sources and on-the-ground partners. Such verification processes are essential to ensuring accountability and to informing state and nonstate actors in their response to the incident. In the meantime, humanitarian organizations are preparing for potential relief needs, including medical assistance, shelter, and safe passage for those impacted. This incident underscores the importance of restraint and the protection of civilian lives in armed conflict, as observers emphasize the need for transparent reporting and continuous updates as verification progresses. The international community continues to call for thorough investigations and adherence to international norms, with the goal of preventing further harm and addressing the immediate humanitarian needs of affected populations.