Ukraine Seeks Justice for Civilians Killed by Russian Mines

Ukraine is gathering evidence to present to the International Criminal Court regarding the deaths of nearly 300 civilians from mines left behind by Russia. The Security Service of Ukraine has documented injuries and fatalities primarily in Donetsk and Kharkiv regions, often disguised as common items like toys and candy boxes.

Ukraine urgently compiles evidence to present to the International Criminal Court following the deaths of nearly 300 civilians from leftover Russian mines, according to a statement by Kyiv's domestic security service. The invasion, which began in February 2022, has devastated large areas and caused tens of thousands of civilian casualties, the United Nations reports.

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) disclosed that over 1,000 Ukrainians have been injured and 297 have died, primarily in the eastern Donetsk and Kharkiv regions, due to various types of mines left by retreating Russian forces. 'The occupiers often disguise these lethal devices as common items, including children's toys and candy boxes,' said the SBU.

'Additionally, Russian sabotage groups frequently set up minefields to cover their retreats from the front lines and border areas.' Despite Russia's denial of targeting civilians, the SBU prepares a comprehensive evidence base to submit to The Hague. On a related note, Kharkiv prosecutors initiated a war-crimes investigation after a mine explosion injured six individuals.