SA worried about Russia's 'indiscriminate attacks' on Ukranian civilians

JOHANNESBURG - The South African government said it remains deeply concerned about what its labelled "indiscriminate attacks" on civilians emanating from a Russian attack which killed pensioners in Yarova village, in eastern Ukraine.

Twenty-four people were killed and 19 injured in the attack this week.

The death toll is among the heaviest attacks on Ukrainian civilians in recent weeks, 42 months into Russia’s full-scale invasion.

South African officials have again called for a de-escalation and ceasefire as it pleads with all parties to the conflict to abide by international law.

Spokesperson for the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Chrispin Phiri, explained: “At a time when armed conflicts are increasing and escalating, South Africa not only calls for a de-escalation and ceasefire, but also implores all parties to the conflict to abide by international law, including international humanitarian law obligations."

Phiri said South African will continue to lobby for peace and stability globally.

“We continue to see attacks against civilians and civilian installations in breach of the principle of distinction. International Humanitarian Law requires parties to armed conflict to always distinguish between combatants and civilians as well as between military and civilian targets."