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May 28, 2025 – Russia/Ukraine –
A joint investigation by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and Ukrainian watchdog Truth Hounds reveals that since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, at least 25 hotels near Ukraine’s front lines have been struck by Russian forces. These hotels, known to accommodate journalists, have been targeted in what appears to be a deliberate strategy to suppress independent war reporting.
The report documents 31 attacks resulting in injuries to at least 24 journalists and the death of one. Notably, Ryan Evans, a British security advisor for Reuters, was killed in August 2024 when the Sapphire Hotel in Kramatorsk was hit by a Russian missile. While Russia claims these hotels housed military personnel or foreign mercenaries, the investigation found little evidence supporting such assertions. Instead, journalists were identified as the primary occupants.
The use of precision munitions, such as ballistic and cruise missiles, in these attacks indicates a shift from isolated incidents to a sustained campaign aimed at discouraging frontline reporting. This has forced many journalists to seek alternative accommodations, often in less secure or more remote locations, complicating their ability to cover the conflict effectively.
The targeting of journalists and media facilities is a violation of international humanitarian law, which protects civilians and civilian infrastructure during armed conflicts. The deliberate attacks on known journalist accommodations raise serious concerns about Russia’s commitment to these legal obligations.
The international community, including press freedom organizations, has condemned these actions and called for accountability. Ensuring the safety of journalists is crucial for transparent and accurate reporting, especially in conflict zones where independent information is vital.
Reference –
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/05/16/ukraine-russia-hotels-targeting-journalists/
