In October, energy facilities in civilian areas were targeted for the third large-scale combined strike, causing significant power outages. In Zaporizhzhia, at least two civilians were killed, 23 injured, including six children, due to over eight ballistic missiles and 20 drones. A seven-year-old girl was among the deceased in the central region of Vinnytsia.
Over 700 Strikes
Thursday’s attacks were among the largest since Russia’s invasion in 2022, with 705 munitions reportedly used. UN monitoring team head, Danielle Belle, emphasized the potential “dangerous consequences” for civilians during winter if attacks persist. Disruptions would disproportionately impact vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, disabled people, and families with young children. Ukrainian armed forces reportedly countered Russian long-range attacks with their own drone and missile strikes.
Nuclear Testing ‘Can Never Be Permitted Under Any Circumstances,’ UN Reiterates
Following a statement from the US President about resuming nuclear weapons testing, the UN called for a moratorium, warning against proliferation. Deputy UN Spokesperson Farhan Haq stated the risk of nuclear war is “alarmingly high.” President Donald Trump announced on social media his directive for the Pentagon to “start testing our nuclear weapons,” in response to Russian and Chinese activities. China has not conducted a nuclear test since 1996, with Russia’s last confirmed test in 1990.
Miscalculation and Escalation
Mr. Haq warned against any nuclear activity leading to “miscalculation or escalation.” He highlighted the “disastrous legacy” of over 2,000 nuclear weapons tests in the past 80 years. The Secretary-General opposes nuclear testing under any circumstances. Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the CTBTO, stated the treaty bans all nuclear explosions, and his agency can detect any nuclear test worldwide. He urged world leaders to advance towards a world free of nuclear weapons testing.
UN Experts Warn of Rights Violations in Nicaragua, Urge Protection for Exiled Citizens
Independent human rights experts urged the international community to hold Nicaragua’s Government accountable for major rights violations and crimes. Presenting their findings to the General Assembly, Jan-Michael Simon, Chair of the Group, noted Nicaragua’s past for peace but now faces allegations of eroding the rule of law and democracy.
Silencing Dissent, Home and Abroad
The report to the General Assembly described a deliberate State policy to silence dissent and consolidate power through violence and systematic rights erosion. Documented human rights violations may amount to crimes against humanity. The group condemned the rising enforced disappearances, calling them acts of cruelty affecting victims and families. They also criticized the Government’s repression overseas, stripping exiles of their nationality as a tool against dissenters.
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