Ukraine war: 16 killed in missile attack on market town

Sep 6: At least 16 people have been killed in a missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Kostyantynivka.

President Volodymyr Zelensky, who blamed Russia, said those killed were "people who did nothing wrong" - and warned the death toll could increase.

Kostyantynivka, in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, is near the front line.

"This Russian evil must be defeated as soon as possible," Zelensky added. The authorities in Moscow are yet to comment on the claims.

Among the 16 dead are a child, with at least 28 others thought to be injured.

"All services are working," Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said, adding: "The fire is contained."

A market, shops and a pharmacy are reported to have been hit.

Videos circulating on social media appear to show the moment of the explosion and its graphic aftermath.

It took place in a busy street as people were flocking to market stalls and café terraces.

An investigation into the attack has been launched by Ukraine's prosecutor-general, which its office said was in pursuit of "criminal proceedings for violation of the laws and customs of war".

Officials in Russia have not yet claimed responsibility for the attack. They have previously denied targeting citizens as part of their offensive.

The attack on Wednesday coincided with a visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, where he was due to meet Zelensky.

It was assumed he would announce a fresh US aid package for the war-torn country during his trip.

(BBC)