Kramatorsk: Alleged Russian spy to be charged over deadly strike
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that a suspected Russian agent involved in the deadly attack in Kramatorsk will be charged with treason. Zelensky emphasized that those assisting Russia in causing harm deserve the harshest punishment. The missile strike on a popular restaurant claimed the lives of twelve individuals, including three teenagers. The Ukrainian authorities claim that the suspect, a resident of Kramatorsk, had sent video footage of the restaurant to the Russian military prior to its destruction. The city of Kramatorsk is under Ukrainian control but is situated near Russian-occupied areas. Rescue efforts are still underway, and the security services have released a photo of the arrested suspect, who could face life imprisonment.
The targeted restaurant, called the Ria lounge, was a frequented venue for international journalists, volunteers, and Ukrainian soldiers taking breaks from the nearby front lines. Several people, including Colombian nationals and a prominent Ukrainian writer, were injured in the attack. One witness described the aftermath of the explosion, mentioning the surreal sight of particles moving in slow motion. A leading Ukrainian writer is in critical condition following the incident.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro denounced the attack on Colombian citizens and instructed the foreign ministry to issue a diplomatic protest. The Colombian peace negotiator who was present during the attack sustained minor injuries. Ukrainian officials have been urging their allies to provide modern fighter jets to enhance their defense capabilities against Russian strikes. The United States recently announced its support for Ukraine by allowing Western allies to supply American-made F16s and training Ukrainian pilots to operate the jets. The Russian government has claimed that its strikes target military installations and alleged the destruction of a temporary deployment of Ukrainian commanders in Kramatorsk without providing further details.
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