We deplore the killing of civilians in an attack on the occupied Ukrainian city of Donetsk yesterday, when two local markets and a nearby residential area were struck. We are trying to obtain more information about the attack – despite our lack of access to Donetsk and other Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine. We are currently verifying preliminary reports which indicate that civilians were killed in the attack.

It is crucial that thorough, prompt and independent investigations be carried out to determine the facts and responsibility for this attack. The investigation should establish whether this attack violated applicable law on the conduct of hostilities, with a view to ensuring accountability.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk stresses that international humanitarian law must be strictly respected. Parties to the conflict must take all necessary precautions to avoid civilian casualties and protect civilians from harm.