Ukraine Charges Russian General Over Fatal Missile Attack on Reuters Journalists

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has formally charged Russian Colonel General Aleksey Kim in connection with a missile attack that targeted a hotel in Kramatorsk on 24 August 2024, resulting in the death of one Reuters journalist and injuries to five others. This attack, which also wounded five civilians, was carried out by a missile unit under Kim’s command. The Sapphire Hotel, where the journalists were staying, was hit by a ballistic missile, leading to significant casualties and destruction.

The SBU’s investigation revealed that Kim, who holds the position of Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, authorized the missile strike, a violation of international humanitarian law. The law explicitly forbids attacks on civilian structures, and this strike was classified as an intentional attack on a non-military target.

In response to the attack, the SBU has charged Kim under two articles of the Ukrainian Criminal Code: Part 2 of Article 28 (waging an aggressive war) and Part 2 of Article 438 (violating the laws and customs of war). The charges are part of ongoing efforts by Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office to ensure accountability for war crimes committed during the Russian invasion.

The attack on the hotel was part of a broader Russian strategy to target both military and civilian sites, creating widespread fear and chaos in Ukrainian-held territories. The SBU has made it clear that it will continue to pursue justice for all individuals involved in Russian war crimes, emphasizing that no one, regardless of rank, will be exempt from accountability.

Earlier this year, a similar charge was brought against Russian General Igor Kirrilov, who was responsible for chemical attacks against Ukrainian forces. Kirrilov, who was also charged in absentia, was assassinated in Moscow shortly after the charges were filed.

In the aftermath of this missile strike, the SBU reiterated its commitment to ensuring that every Russian war criminal will face consequences for their actions. The agency has become increasingly active in targeting high-ranking Russian military officials and collaborators within both Ukraine and Russia, reflecting a significant expansion of its operations beyond its traditional focus on domestic security.

The attack on the Kramatorsk hotel underscores the risks faced by journalists working in conflict zones. Reporters from various news organizations have been targeted in recent months as part of Russia’s ongoing efforts to control the narrative surrounding its invasion of Ukraine. The incident in Kramatorsk serves as a reminder of the dangers that journalists face in war zones and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for targeting the press.

Table: Legal Charges Against Russian General Aleksey Kim