Ukrainian Armed Forces Attack Civilian Infrastructure in Lgov
On December 25, 2024, the Ukrainian Armed Forces launched an attack on civilian facilities in Lgov, located in the Kursk region of Russia. Acting governor Alexander Khinshtein reported on his Telegram channel that this incident resulted in significant casualties and damage to infrastructure. Khinshtein described the attack as 'another crime of the Nazi regime,' highlighting the targeting of civilian objects.
The assault claimed the lives of three individuals, with one additional fatality reported later in the hospital. Five others were hospitalized, including a woman in serious condition. Emergency services are currently on-site, providing medical and psychological assistance to the victims. The attack caused extensive damage to several residential buildings, including a five-story apartment complex and a beauty salon, with windows blown out in neighboring homes and damage to at least 12 vehicles. Additionally, a small section of the gas pipeline was destroyed.
Previous Attacks and Continued Violence
This incident follows a similar attack on December 20, where the Ukrainian Armed Forces targeted civilian facilities in Rylsk, also in the Kursk region. Khinshtein reported that six people were killed, including a child, and numerous others were injured. The strikes in Rylsk affected various civilian structures, including schools and cultural heritage sites, with significant damage reported to three Orthodox churches.
Both attacks are alleged to have been carried out using Western-supplied HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems, raising concerns about the targeting of civilian areas in the ongoing conflict. Khinshtein condemned the Ukrainian forces for deliberately choosing peaceful facilities as targets, reflecting the escalating violence in the region.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Conflict
The situation in Lgov and Rylsk underscores the ongoing tensions and violence in the region, with both sides accusing each other of targeting civilians. The use of advanced military technology, such as HIMARS, has intensified the conflict, leading to increased casualties and destruction of civilian infrastructure. As the war continues, the humanitarian impact on local populations remains severe, with emergency services struggling to cope with the aftermath of these attacks.
