OSCE representative condemns attack on editorial office of Vesti newspaper in Kyiv, calls for swift and thorough investigation

VIENNA, 8 July 2014 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today condemned a recent attack on the editorial office of the Vesti newspaper in Kyiv.

On July 5, a group of individuals wearing masks attacked the editorial office of Vesti newspaper in Kyiv with smoke grenades and stones. The office guard was assaulted and sustained injuries, windows were shattered and some of the newspaper’s equipment was damaged.

“I condemn this attack and call on the authorities to carry out a full investigation to identify and bring those responsible to justice,” Mijatović said, welcoming the law enforcement’s immediate launch of an investigation into the matter.

Earlier, in late June, a group of individuals attempted to make their way into the premises of Vesti’s editorial office, but were stopped by the police.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on facebook.com/osce.rfom.