Photo : Ken Mürk/ERR
Photo : Ken Mürk/ERR
War in Ukraine: Days 604
By Rishika Yadav
War on Ground
On 20 October, Steffi Lemke, Germany’s Federal Minister for the Environment arrived in Kyiv. He held discussions on Ukraine’s environmental recovery following Russia’s aggression. The Germany’s government has offered support in addressing the environmental challenges caused by the conflict. The ongoing war has resulted in extensive environmental damage, including war crimes against nature and ecocide. It posed long-term threats to Ukrainians, particularly in terms of access to clean drinking water.
On 20 October, Kyiv Post reported that Russia had escalated its assault on the town of Avdiivka in Ukraine. Ukraine’s forces successfully defended the area. Following a lull in attacks, Russia resumed offensive actions and attempted to encircle the town. Ukraine’s troops held their defence, inflicting heavy losses on Russia.
On 20 October, the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine issued a new UN report. The report detailed ongoing war crimes and human rights abuses by Russia’s authorities in Ukraine. It documented indiscriminate attacks with explosive weapons causing civilian casualties and damage to civilian structures. Torture, rape, and the deportation of children were confirmed. Russia’s authorities have employed a pattern of torture in areas they control. New evidence shows that rape and sexual violence are often accompanied by other acts of violence. Child deportations to Russia are deemed unlawful deportations, considered war crimes. The report emphasized the need for accountability with respect for victims’ rights.
The Moscow View
Claims by Russia
On 20 October, TASS reported on Russia’s military claim on destroying 500 combat aircraft in Kupyansk area. A statement was issued by Russia’s defence ministry where additional 250 helicopters were reported to be destroyed since the war began. It stated successful operation in past week for Russia’s air defence force on destroying 10 MiG-29s fighter jets, two Mi-8 helicopters of Ukraine and seven MiG-29 fighters. Intense fight was also recorded in south Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia direction, Krasny-Lyman direction, and Kherson.
On 20 October, Vladimir Putin, Russia’s President, visited the headquarters of the Southern Military District in Rostov-on-Don. He received a report from General Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of the General Staff of Rostov, regarding the special military operation’s progress. The President engaged in discussions with senior ministry of defence officials.
The West View
Responses from the US and Europe
On 20 October, David Pressman, US Ambassador to Hungary, expressed concerns regarding Hungary’s relationship with Russia. He pointed particularly to the visit by Viktor Orbán, Hungary’s Prime Minister, with Putin. Pressman criticized Orban for “choosing to stand with a man whose forces are responsible for crimes against humanity in Ukraine.” Orban’s government has faced criticism for opposing EU initiatives to support Ukraine against Russia, as it maintains closer relations with Moscow. Ukraine has accused Hungary of funding Russia’s war crimes through energy deals, potentially prolonging the conflict in Ukraine.
On 20 October, Edgars Rinkevics, Latvia’s President, suggested that if Russia is found responsible for recent damage to the Balticconnector gas pipeline, NATO should close the Baltic Sea to shipping. He mentioned that although it is a complex issue involving maritime rights, protecting critical infrastructure would require a conversation on closing the Baltic Sea. The Balticconnector pipeline and communication cables have been damaged in recent incidents, which are being investigated as sabotage. The investigation results will guide further action and discussions within NATO regarding the Baltic Sea’s security.
References "German Federal Minister for Environment and Nuclear Safety arrives in Kyiv,” Ukrinform, 20 October 2023
“Russia Steps Up Assault on Avdiivka, Ukraine ‘Kills 900 Troops in One Day’,” Kyiv Post, 20 October 2023
“Commission of Inquiry finds further evidence of war crimes in Ukraine,” UN News, 20 October 2023
“Russian forces destroy 500 combat aircraft in Ukraine operation, top brass reports,” TASS, 20 October 2023
“Visit to the headquarters of the Southern Military District,” President of Russia, 20 October 2023
Pierre Emmanuel Ngendakumana, “US finds Orbán-Putin love-in ‘troubling’,” POLITICO, 20 October 2023
“Latvian president: Close Baltic Sea if Russia behind Balticconnector damage,” err.ee, 20 October 2023