Russia’s UN representative Vassily Nebenzia launched a fierce attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a briefing on the Starobelsk college strike, accusing Kyiv of targeting former compatriots and civilians. Nebenzia claimed that 21 people, mostly young girls, were killed in the attack and criticised what he called Western silence and media double standards. He also accused Ukrainian drone operators of deliberately targeting civilian sites and challenged international journalists to inspect the scene. The explosive remarks add fresh controversy to the ongoing information and diplomatic battle surrounding the Ukraine conflict.
Details of the Accusation
Speaking at a United Nations Security Council briefing, Nebenzia said, 'Zelensky is exterminating his former fellow citizens.' He alleged that the strike on Starobelsk was a deliberate act against civilians, noting that the majority of victims were young women. Nebenzia demanded that international media and Western governments acknowledge the incident and condemned what he described as a 'conspiracy of silence.'
Call for Investigation
Nebenzia challenged journalists to visit Starobelsk to verify the facts, stating that Russia has evidence of Ukrainian drone operations targeting civilian infrastructure. He also accused the West of applying double standards by ignoring civilian casualties in territories held by Ukraine while condemning Russian actions. The Russian envoy’s remarks come amid heightened tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.
International Reaction
The Ukrainian government has not yet responded to Nebenzia’s specific allegations. However, Kyiv has consistently denied targeting civilians and accuses Russia of spreading disinformation. The United Nations has called for an impartial investigation into the Starobelsk incident, but no independent verification has been possible due to security concerns. The incident underscores the deep propaganda war that accompanies the military conflict, with both sides seeking to shape global opinion.
