17 October 2025

Belarus MFA extends condolences over death of RIA Novosti correspondent Ivan Zuev

Belarus’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed its deep condolences over the death of RIA Novosti correspondent Ivan Zuev, BelTA learned from the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus.

"The death of a journalist who was performing his professional duty in a conflict zone is a stark reminder of the high risks faced by media representatives in conflict areas," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted.

The ministry recalled that international humanitarian law explicitly stipulates that journalists reporting in situations of armed conflict are considered civilians and are not legitimate military targets. An attack on them constitutes a war crime.

"Cases of attacks on media representatives, who are marked in accordance with international standards, demand the most decisive response and effective measures from appropriate international organizations,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized.

The ministry also extended sincere wishes for a speedy recovery to cameraman Yuri Voitkevich, who was injured in the same attack. 

Source