OSCE Media Freedom Representative condemns attack against Ukrainian TV channel 112 in Ukraine

VIENNA, 13 July 2019 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, today condemned the grenade attack on the office building of Ukrainian TV channel 112 Ukraine in Kyiv.

“I condemn the attack on channel 112 Ukraine premises today in Kyiv. Hopefully nobody was wounded but such violence and threats against media cannot be tolerated. This is an unacceptable act of intimidation which could have had dramatic consequences,” Désir said, welcoming the swift response of law enforcement officials in the case. 

Last night an unknown person shot at the premises of the channel with a grenade launcher. No injuries were reported. According to the law enforcement, a criminal case was launched on terrorism charges.

“I call on the Ukrainian authorities to thoroughly investigate this attack, and to bring those responsible for this crime to justice,” Désir said.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He 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 www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.