Kremlin voices remarks on ECHR Odessa massacre ruling

(MENAFN) Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov commented on the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) ruling that found Ukraine responsible for the 2014 massacre in Odessa, describing it as a "glimpse of common sense." However, Peskov emphasized that one ruling was insufficient to make broader conclusions and that further similar actions were needed.

The ECHR determined that Ukrainian authorities were guilty for failing to prevent or stop the violence during the May 2, 2014, incident, which resulted in the deaths of anti-Maidan activists. These individuals had sought refuge in the Odessa trade union building, which was set on fire by radical nationalists. The court concluded that Ukraine failed to take adequate measures to prevent the violence or rescue those trapped in the building.

Clashes between pro-Maidan nationalists and anti-coup activists erupted on that day, leading the latter group to seek shelter in the building. Nationalists surrounded the building, threw Molotov cocktails at it, and set it ablaze, causing 48 deaths and injuring over 200 people. Despite the gravity of the event, Ukraine has not prosecuted the perpetrators, instead blaming Russia for allegedly orchestrating the massacre.

The ECHR ruling was based on complaints filed by victims' relatives and survivors, who argued that Ukrainian authorities ignored available intelligence and failed to prevent the deadly confrontation. While the court acknowledged Russian propaganda’s role in escalating tensions, it held Ukraine accountable for the tragic events.

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