Deadly Attack in Dnipropetrovsk Region
On February 1, a Russian attack on a bus carrying DTEK miners in the Dnipropetrovsk region resulted in the deaths of 16 people, with others wounded. This mass terrorist act targeted the vehicle as it was transporting workers home after their shift. The Dnipropetrovsk region has been a frequent target of Russian strikes throughout the conflict.
Statement from DTEK's CEO
DTEK CEO Maksym Tymchenko stated that this attack is a tragedy not only for the company but for the entire nation.
“Russia is attacking the civilian population. These people were simply riding a bus home from work to their families.” - Maksym Tymchenko
Tymchenko added that later the same night, Russian forces struck the same location again, targeting DTEK facilities and coal mines situated just twenty meters from the bus. Both the initial bus attack and a subsequent strike on those attempting to provide aid were carried out using drones. DTEK is Ukraine's largest private energy company, making its infrastructure a strategic target.
This tragedy underscores the grave threat posed by attacks on civilians in the conflict zone. It raises serious concerns for the safety of workers in the coal industry and other sectors exposed to military action. Furthermore, the repeated strikes on the site of the tragedy may indicate a deliberate tactic by the aggressor to instill fear and destabilize the region.