Calls for Accountability in Drone Attacks on Civilians in Ukraine
In an urgent appeal for justice, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised alarm over the use of drones by Russian forces in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for accountability in light of the severe humanitarian implications. The organization released a report outlining the patterned targeting of civilians, notably in the southern city of Kherson, where drone attacks have resulted in significant civilian casualties.
The report details that the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by the Russian military has led to dozens of civilian deaths and numerous injuries since the onset of the conflict over three years ago. Such actions are described as a blatant violation of international laws of armed conflict, further compounding the suffering of the civilian population amid ongoing hostilities.
Through meticulous investigation, HRW referenced compelling evidence, including video footage and testimonies from survivors. The organization contends that Russian drone operators have engaged in a calculated strategy to intercept and attack individuals and civilian infrastructure. This has been particularly evident in areas like Kherson, where evidence suggests that operators may have undergone training exercises that involved targeting civilians in what has been termed “human safaris.”
Belkis Wille, HRW’s director focused on arms and conflict, underscored the grave consequences of these drone operations, stating that the ability to track targets using high-resolution imaging implies a deliberate intent to inflict harm on civilians. The organization has called for a concerted effort from the international community to pursue all possible avenues for ensuring accountability for these alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.
A detailed examination conducted by HRW inclusive of interviews with 36 individuals affected by these attacks, as well as analysis of over 83 videos shared on military-affiliated channels, uncovered at least 45 instances of targeted drone strikes against civilian positions between June and December 2024. These attacks reportedly affected critical infrastructure, including healthcare facilities, exacerbating the already dire situation for the city’s inhabitants. Kherson authorities have documented over 30 fatalities and approximately 500 injuries related to these assaults within the designated timeframe.
Previous observations by the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission highlighted that drone attacks constituted roughly 70 percent of civilian casualties in Kherson, further substantiating the claims made by HRW. The mission characterized the onslaught as part of a broader strategy to instill fear within the civilian population.
As the conflict endures, the deployment of commercial drones from companies such as DJI and Autel, alongside Russian domestic manufactures, raises critical questions regarding the ethical responsibilities for both manufacturers and users in zones of conflict.
The call for accountability resonates widely, reflecting the urgent need for comprehensive international oversight and reflection on the humanitarian impacts of modern warfare tactics.
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