International Red Cross Criticizes Russian Retaliatory Strikes as "Threat to Civilian Lives"

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[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyemin] The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has voiced criticism over Russia's large-scale missile attacks on Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, and other locations.

On the 11th (local time), the ICRC issued a statement condemning the attacks, saying, "The use of explosive weapons has put civilian lives at risk." It added, "The impact of the war in Ukraine is most severe on children, the elderly, patients, and people with disabilities, and there are concerns that civilian casualties may increase due to this attack."

The ICRC urged, "According to international humanitarian law, parties to a conflict must consider the impact on civilians and civilian infrastructure in all military operations," emphasizing, "It is essential to protect civilian lives as well as medical facilities, schools, power plants, and other critical infrastructure." It further stressed, "Explosive weapons with wide-area effects, such as missiles, should be avoided in densely populated areas unless sufficient measures are in place to prevent civilian harm."

The previous day, Russia fired dozens of missiles at 12 cities including Kyiv, the western city of Lviv, central Dnipro, southeastern Zaporizhzhia, and northern Sumy. At least 11 people were killed and dozens injured. Key infrastructure such as energy facilities was also destroyed by the bombings.

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