**Filmmaker Hurt in Kyiv Balcony Collapse, City Officials Blame Neglect**
A US filmmaker, Christopher Walters, was injured when a balcony fell on him in central Kyiv. This happened in the Podilskyi district of the city, near the entrance to a building. According to a social media post by the filmmaker, he was hurt while documenting the Russian war against Ukraine.
**Visible Bruises and a Ruined Balcony**
Walters shared a video address on Instagram, showing visible bruises on his face and a destroyed balcony in the background. He joked that “while missiles and drones are flying, we are being injured by balconies due to someone’s irresponsibility!” The incident is seen as a result of years of neglect, rather than a deliberate attack.
**City Officials Respond**
Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, described the accident as “not a hostile attack but a consequence of many years of inaction.” Tkachenko, who has been involved in a public conflict with Mayor Vitali Klitschko, said that he will have a serious conversation with district management companies to prevent such incidents from happening again.
**Investigation and Damage Assessment**
Walters wants to conduct an investigation into the causes of the balcony collapse. The new head of the Podilskyi district administration has been instructed to keep in touch with the victim and assess the damage.
This incident highlights the need for better maintenance and upkeep in Kyiv, especially during times of conflict. It also shows that even amidst war, everyday issues like building safety can cause harm to people.
