The terrorist attack in Olenivka: why the UN investigation lasted three years

Oleksandra Mazur, head of the NGO "Olenivka Community," explained on 24 Channel that the investigation was prolonged due to two main reasons. Firstly, conducting the analysis is a lengthy process, complicated by the fact that the Russians did not provide access to the crime scene. Secondly, it was politically motivated, as Russia is a member of the UN.

Avoided even hints at Russia

Initial reports did not indicate that the crime was committed by Russia, with no hints at its involvement.

The reports contained more facts about the crime not being committed by Ukraine, but concerning who exactly is responsible if not Ukraine, they tried to avoid any wording that would directly point to Russia or imply its possible involvement,
– explained Oleksandra Mazur.

She noted that as early as the beginning of 2022, she saw materials from Russia where the Russians were convincing Ukrainians who survived that it was Ukraine who shelled them. However, these were just words without any attempts to provide evidence, as no such evidence exists.

Lack of a structure to punish Russia

She noted that there were many speeches abroad in various structures dedicated to the events in Olenivka. Collected materials were handed over, including in the form of films with testimonies  of those who survived this tragedy. International specialized organizations possess this information and conducted appropriate meetings. However, there is currently no organization that could hold Russia accountable for this crime.

This story is mostly known to people associated with humanitarian structures. Ordinary citizens are practically uninformed about the terrorist attack.

"I even have such a story: I was at an international event in a merch where it said ’Olenivka’. A foreigner asked what it means, whether it’s my name. Few are knowledgeable about this, except for people who are very interested in Ukraine. We conduct informational work—I mean all of us, Ukrainians—but we provide a lot of news, and foreigners are not very interested because they have their own news," – said Oleksandra Mazur.

She added that currently, new evidence emerging about Olenivka only confirms that it is the handiwork of Russia.