**Kostiantynivka on Brink of Humanitarian Crisis Amid Continued Russian Attacks, Governor Says**
The city of Kostiantynivka in Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast is facing a looming humanitarian catastrophe due to ongoing Russian strikes that have destroyed critical infrastructure and left thousands without basic services. According to Governor Vadym Filashkin, nearly half the city is without electricity, 1,900 households have no access to gas, and water is supplied only once a day, meeting just 20-25% of the city’s needs.
The situation in Kostiantynivka has become increasingly dire over recent months as Moscow pushes westward beyond its gains around other nearby towns. The city lies just 10-15 kilometers (6-9 miles) from several areas currently occupied by Russian forces, according to battlefield mapping site DeepState. As a result, the city has come under intensified attack, with drone strikes halting all city bus operations and limiting suburban routes.
**Russian Forces Target Civilians and Infrastructure**
Yevhen Alkhimov, press officer of Ukraine’s 28th Mechanized Brigade, which is fighting near Kostiantynivka, told the Kyiv Independent that “the greatest danger at the moment comes from first person view (FPV) drones, including fiber optic models.” He added that Russian forces are deliberately targeting vehicles, including civilian buses, in an effort to control all movement in the city.
“This is not just about destroying the city,” Alkhimov said. “The Russians’ goal right now is to make it unsuitable for defense by controlling all the roads.”
**Emergency Support Hubs and Evacuation Efforts**
Despite the risks, emergency crews, doctors, utility workers, and local officials continue to work in the city. Authorities have installed seven large water tanks and 11 smaller containers throughout the city, as well as 12 wells with filtration systems. Five “Points of Invincibility,” Ukraine’s emergency support hubs, are operational, with two more on standby.
Governor Filashkin urged those still in the city to evacuate, citing the dangers faced by civilians who remain in the city. Alkhimov also emphasized the risks, saying that life is becoming increasingly difficult for those remaining in Kostiantynivka.
**International Response and Support**
The international community has continued to show support for Ukraine as it faces ongoing Russian aggression. Lithuania has signed a memorandum with American defense firm Northrop Grumman and Norwegian Nammo to secure the production of ammunition amid Russia’s war against Ukraine. The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s ongoing support for Ukraine at a NATO summit in The Hague.
The article concludes by highlighting the importance of international cooperation in holding Russian officials accountable for launching the full-scale war against Ukraine.
