The Ukrainian Ambassador to Nigeria, Ivan Kholostenko, has lauded the Federal Government’s support since the Russian-Ukrainian war began on February 24, 2022.

 He urged continued international attention on the crisis.

The envoy spoke on Sunday in Abuja at a private ceremony to open a condolence register for war victims.

 The register followed recent alleged Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure, which allegedly killed innocent people, including children.

 It was the sixth time since April that the Ukrainian Embassy opened a condolence register to allow friends of Ukraine to show solidarity.

 Mr Kholostenko said Ukrainians were deeply grateful to Nigerians for their support.

 He said, “We know that Nigerians, like Ukrainians, understand the value of freedom.’’ 

Explaining the decision, the ambassador said it was part of a disturbing pattern and not an isolated act.

 The embassy opened the register to allow Nigerian partners, friends, and the international community to express solidarity with Ukraine.

 He stated, “We opened this condolence register to honour the memory of innocent victims of yet another massive act of Russian terror against Ukraine. The enemy deliberately targeted civilian infrastructure, causing destruction and killing peaceful people, including children.

 “Since April, the embassy has opened such a register six times in response to large-scale civilian casualties and attacks on both our state and shared humanity. The latest opening comes as UN data shows alarming civilian casualties. As of 31 May 2025, 13,341 civilian deaths were reported by the UN Human Rights Office due to Russia’s invasion since 2022. The UN has also documented thousands more injured civilians, with June 2025 recording the highest monthly toll in three years.’’

 The envoy accused Russia of employing “shameful tactics” to maximise civilian deaths.

 He cited the “double tap” strategy, where the same location is struck again after rescuers arrive, killing emergency workers.

 He also accused Russia of increasingly using cluster munitions to cause more casualties, saying the timing of attacks raised grave concerns.

 “The intensity of Russian strikes has increased after international calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic solutions. This is no coincidence. It is a deliberate signal of contempt from President Vladimir Putin. The escalation is his attempt to project strength from a position of weakness. His army is weak and demoralised, his economy near collapse, and all he has left is terror against civilians. Russia claims it seeks peace, but in practice, it escalates its brutal war. While the world calls for de-escalation, Russia bombs peaceful cities,” Mr Kholostenko said. (NAN)