Russian forces have reportedly destroyed a dam located near Kostiantynivka in the Donetsk region, raising serious concerns about potential humanitarian disasters. The incident has drawn condemnation from Ukrainian officials, who emphasize the dangers posed to local communities.
Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets highlighted that such actions by Russia could lead to severe consequences, including:
- Flooding of populated areas;
- Destruction of critical infrastructure and essential services;
- Damage to roads and bridges;
- Loss of homes and livelihoods for residents;
- Contamination of water and soil, threatening entire ecosystems.
Lubinets stated, “Russia is playing with people’s lives as if there will be no repercussions for their actions.” He also referenced the previous destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station and its devastating aftermath.
The Ombudsman reiterated that dams are protected under humanitarian law, and their destruction is strictly prohibited. He described these actions as war crimes and serious violations of the Geneva Conventions. Lubinets has formally requested the United Nations to document this incident and provide a clear legal assessment of Russia’s actions.
Additionally, reports from the DeepState project indicated that Russian forces dropped a three-ton KAB bomb on the dam, which has resulted in water reaching the Druzkhivka-Kostiantynivka highway, rendering it impassable.
In a related note, the 16th Army Corps of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported in December that Russian forces have been systematically targeting the Pechenizka dam in the Kharkiv region, a critical water supply source for numerous communities. Attacks have included the use of missiles, KAB bombs, and various drones.
The destruction of a dam near Kostiantynivka by Russian forces has raised alarms over potential humanitarian crises, with significant risks to local infrastructure and ecosystems. Ukrainian officials are calling for international accountability regarding these actions, which they classify as war crimes.