russian forces have once again reportedly used white phosphorus munitions against the Ukrainian city of Kostiantynivka, according to footage released on June 3 by the Khyzhak Brigade. The strike is described as involving internationally prohibited incendiary weapons.
The video, reportedly recorded by Ukrainian UAV operator with the call sign Aurora, shows dozens of burning elements falling over residential areas of the city. Ukrainian officials say the footage is evidence of the use of phosphorus-based munitions in a densely populated urban environment.
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White phosphorus is a chemical substance that ignites on contact with oxygen and burns at extremely high temperatures. While it has legitimate military applications such as illumination and smoke screening, its use against civilian areas is widely condemned due to its severe and indiscriminate effects.
According to Ukrainian defenders, the munitions caused widespread fires upon impact, posing a significant threat to civilian infrastructure and increasing the risk of casualties among the local population. The burning particles can continue to ignite even after initial contact, complicating firefighting efforts.
Kostiantynivka, located in the Donetsk region, has been repeatedly targeted by russian artillery and aerial strikes throughout the war. The city remains close to active frontline positions and is frequently exposed to shelling and drone attacks.
Ukrainian authorities emphasize that the use of phosphorus weapons in residential zones violates international humanitarian law and key provisions of the Geneva Conventions, which restrict the use of incendiary weapons in civilian-populated areas.
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