At night, Russia launched a second missile attack on a gas production facility in Poltava region when rescuers were extinguishing a large-scale fire. The attack killed two experienced SES officers and two other people, and injured more than 20 others.
Another attack on rescuers in Poltava region
On the night of 5 May, Russian troops launched a second missile attack on a gas production facility in the Poltava region. After the first attack, the State Emergency Service arrived to extinguish a large-scale fire caused by the enemy shelling. However, when the rescuers were already working to eliminate the consequences, the enemy made a targeted second attack on people.
Pros. information According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, two rescuers were killed, two other civilians were injured and eight people were wounded. 23 rescuers sustained injuries of varying severity, three of them are in serious condition, and doctors are fighting for their lives.
Casualties among rescuers: heroic names
Among the dead are Viktor Kuzmenko, Deputy Head of the Operational Coordination Centre of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Poltava Region, Hero of Ukraine. Under his leadership, 17 people were rescued in 2024 after the attack on Poltava. He had extensive experience in eliminating the consequences of shelling and preventing man-made disasters, and personally participated in more than 50 operations at critical infrastructure facilities.
A firefighter-rescuer was also killed Dmytro Skryl, who has served in the SES for over 20 years. He repeatedly extinguished complex fires at oil and gas facilities caused by Russian shelling. Dmytro Skryl was known for his responsibility and professionalism, working in the most difficult conditions.
Consequences of the attack for civilians and rescuers
In addition to the rescuers killed, the second strike claimed the lives of two more people. Eight of the victims sustained injuries of varying severity. 23 rescuers were injured, three of them in serious condition. Doctors are providing them with the necessary assistance, fighting for the lives of the victims.
This attack was another example of deliberate terror against those who save the lives of Ukrainians. According to representatives of the State Emergency Service, every war crime is recorded for further prosecution.
Why it matters
Targeted attacks on rescuers is a gross violation of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions. The loss of experienced SES specialists is not only a tragedy for their families, but also a serious blow to Ukraine's civil protection system.
Such attacks complicate the work of emergency services and endanger the lives of not only rescuers but also civilians. The enemy is trying to intimidate and demoralise those who save people from the consequences of war every day.
Recording each such crime and bringing the perpetrators to justice at the international level is critical to justice and the future security of Ukraine.
