Russia’s reluctance to allow international observers into Kursk Oblast has sparked concern, with Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs suggesting the Kremlin is fearful of exposing the true situation on the ground. Heorhii Tykhyi, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry, commented on the Russian Federation’s strong reaction to the prospect of visits from the United Nations (UN) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

According to Tykhyi, Russia’s apprehension highlights its lack of concern for the humanitarian needs of its people. He remarked that the Kremlin’s resistance is a clear indication of its fear of international transparency. “The Kremlin’s reaction to Ukraine’s offer for the UN and ICRC to join humanitarian efforts in the Kursk region shows Russia’s disregard for its own people and their humanitarian needs, as well as fear of allowing international observers to see the real situation. Quite telling,” Tykhyi said in a post on Twitter (X).

This reaction follows Ukraine’s invitation for the UN and ICRC to assess and contribute to humanitarian relief efforts in the Kursk region, an area now impacted by Ukrainian military operations. However, the Kremlin quickly dismissed Ukraine’s proposal, with Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for Vladimir Putin, labeling it a “provocation.”

The tension between Ukraine and Russia over humanitarian issues deepened earlier this month after a deadly Russian artillery strike on ICRC staff in Ukraine. On September 12, a Russian attack on the village of Viroliubivka in the Kostiantynivka region claimed the lives of three ICRC workers and injured two others. The ICRC team had been preparing to deliver much-needed firewood and coal briquettes to local vulnerable households when their convoy came under fire.

These incidents highlight the dangerous environment for humanitarian workers and the growing challenges in delivering aid to affected regions. As international pressure mounts, the Kremlin’s refusal to allow UN and ICRC observers into Kursk Oblast further emphasizes the need for transparency and humanitarian protection in conflict zones.

The international community continues to watch closely, as Ukraine urges for greater oversight and assistance in these contested areas. The question remains: Will Russia allow transparency, or continue to hide behind its defensive stance?

Más información en Ukrainska Pravda.