Russian actress killed by Ukrainian strike during live show. Russian actress Polina Menshikh, 40, has allegedly lost her life in a Ukrainian attack while performing for Russian troops in a Russian-controlled area of eastern Ukraine, according to statements from the theater where she was employed.
The incident said to have occurred in the Donbas region, remains unverified, with conflicting reports emerging from both Ukrainian and Russian military officials.
Although Reuters could not independently confirm the details, military authorities on both sides acknowledged a Ukrainian attack in the region on November 19.
A Russian military investigator quoted by state television disclosed that HIMARS missiles struck a school and cultural center in the village of Kumachovo (known as Kumachove to Ukrainians), located 60 km (37 miles) from the front line in the Donetsk region.
While the investigator confirmed the death of one civilian without providing further details, the Russian defense ministry has remained silent on casualties.
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In contrast, Ukrainian commanders assert that their forces targeted a Russian military award ceremony, focusing on Russia’s 810th Separate Naval Infantry Brigade.
Ukrainian military commander Robert Brovdi, in a social media post, claimed that 25 individuals lost their lives in the strike, with over 100 sustaining injuries.
Unverified video footage circulating on pro-Russian Telegram channels captured the chilling moment when the performance venue was rocked by an explosion, plunging the building into darkness.
Menshikh, seen singing on stage with a guitar in the footage, became a victim of the sudden blast, leaving soldiers in shock as windows shattered, and lights went out.
Ukrainian authorities have characterized the attack as “revenge for the 128th,” referencing a recent Russian strike on Ukraine’s 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade, which resulted in the death of 19 Ukrainian soldiers.
Expressing discontent, some pro-Russian bloggers criticized the decision to allow a gathering of soldiers within the range of Ukrainian missiles during the event.
The influential Rybar Telegram channel commented, “It seems that very wise people thought and decided that as the concert was 60 km from the front line, then nothing could reach it – as if the enemy has never had long-range missiles that can strike the rear.”
Against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, cultural leaders in Russia have been encouraged to visit areas near the front line, demonstrating support for soldiers engaged in the conflict since President Vladimir Putin deployed troops in February 2022.
As Russian actress killed by Ukrainian strike during live show, this tragic incident underscores the complexities and human toll of the ongoing conflict, raising questions about the safety of civilians and performers in such volatile regions.
