Nordic Rights Condemns Russian Drone Attacks on Kyiv and Escalation of Conflict in Ukraine

At Nordic Right, we are committed to advocating for and upholding human rights across the Nordic Region and beyond. Today, we strongly condemn the recent escalation of violence in Ukraine, particularly the unprovoked and alarming drone attacks on Kyiv.

According to a military statement, Russia launched 20 Iranian-made Shahed drones overnight, targeting the Ukrainian capital as well as the Cherkasy and Poltava regions. While Ukrainian anti-aircraft systems successfully shot down 15 of these drones, the brazen attack is deeply troubling. This marks the second assault on Kyiv within 48 hours, underscoring the urgency of addressing the deteriorating situation in the region.

The targeting of civilian areas is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law, and we express our deep concern for the safety and well-being of the residents affected by these attacks. We call upon all parties involved in the conflict to respect the principles of human rights and prioritize the protection of civilians.

The U.K. Defense Ministry’s assessment that there are “few immediate prospects of major changes in the front line” underscores the prolonged and devastating nature of the conflict as it enters its second winter. We urge the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict and mitigate the suffering of the civilian population.

Reports of injuries in Kherson, including a 3-year-old girl, as a result of Russian shelling are heartbreaking. Targeting residential areas and causing harm to innocent civilians is unacceptable, and we call for an immediate cessation of such actions.

As an organization dedicated to promoting human rights, we are deeply troubled by the continued escalation of hostilities, and we implore all parties involved to prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere to international humanitarian law.