UN human rights office voices concern over plight of civilians in Kharkiv, Ukraine

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - The UN human rights office on Tuesday expressed concern over the plight of civilians in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine, saying the latest Russian attacks triggered further displacement.

"We are deeply concerned at the plight of civilians in Ukraine, particularly in the Kharkiv region, as Russian armed forces have stepped up their attacks in recent days," spokesperson Liz Throssell told a UN briefing in Geneva.

"This assault has seized more Ukrainian territory, triggered further displacement, and potentially threatens Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city," Throssell warned.

Since Friday, at least 6,000 people are believed to have fled or been evacuated from areas on the border, she said, adding that many have reached the city of Kharkiv, located just some 30-40 kilometers (18.6-24.8 miles) from the fighting.

Meanwhile, the human rights monitoring team in Ukraine verified that at least eight civilians have been killed and 35 injured in the Kharkiv region.

"This follows a pattern of civilian casualties documented for April, when at least 129 civilians were killed and 574 injured, the majority amid attacks by Russian armed forces along the frontlines," Throssell noted.

"In Kharkiv region, the situation is dire, as fighting intensifies."