Russian police investigators on Friday launched a terrorism probe after a Ukrainian drone strike wounded a Chinese journalist in the Kursk border region.
Lu Yuguang, a 63-year-old reporter with the Chinese state-affiliated Phoenix TV, sustained head injuries Thursday afternoon while reporting near targeted facilities in the village of Korenevo, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the border, Russian officials said.
Lu declined hospitalization after receiving treatment for cuts to his head, according to Acting Kursk region Governor Alexander Khinshtein. In a video published by Russian state media, Lu appeared with a bandage around his head and spoke to reporters.
Russia’s Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes, said it ordered a forensic medical exam to assess Lu’s injuries and was working to identify the Ukrainian drone operators to charge them with terrorism.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of “deliberately attacking” journalists and urged foreign governments to condemn the strike.
China’s Foreign Ministry said it was “deeply concerned” following the incident.
“The Chinese side calls on all parties to commit to a political resolution of the Ukraine crisis and jointly work toward easing tensions,” ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said.
AFP contributed reporting.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
