Russian forces attacked a United Nations aid convoy in Ukraine’s southern Kherson region on Tuesday, damaging vehicles but causing no casualties. The convoy, consisting of four clearly marked vehicles, was delivering humanitarian assistance to the frontline town of Bilozerka when it came under drone and artillery fire. The attack has drawn strong condemnation from the UN and Ukrainian officials, who called it a violation of international humanitarian law.
UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine Matthias Schmale stated that such actions are “utterly unacceptable,” emphasizing that aid workers are protected under international law. He confirmed that two World Food Programme trucks were damaged in the strike, while the other two escaped unscathed. Photos shared by regional authorities showed one of the damaged trucks engulfed in flames, with thick smoke billowing into the sky.
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According to the UN’s reproductive health agency, UNFPA, the convoy was carrying 800 essential aid packages meant for women, girls, and elderly citizens. The agency noted that many residents in the region are elderly and unable to relocate due to continuous shelling and drone attacks. “These people rely entirely on humanitarian assistance for survival,” said UNFPA Representative Jacqueline Mahon.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga denounced the attack as “another brutal violation of international law,” accusing Russia of showing “utter disregard for civilian lives and international obligations.” Meanwhile, there has been no immediate response from Moscow regarding the strike. Regional officials reported additional shelling in the Kherson region that killed three civilians in the main city and one more in nearby Nikopol.
The Kherson region remains one of the most volatile areas in the ongoing conflict, partially controlled by Russian forces since their 2022 annexation claim. Attacks on aid workers and humanitarian facilities have been a recurring issue throughout the war, with international agencies repeatedly calling for the protection of civilians and relief missions. The latest strike has once again highlighted the severe risks faced by humanitarian teams operating near active frontlines.