MOSCOW — The Russian Foreign Ministry reported on Saturday that a Ukrainian attack on the Belgorod region using cluster munitions resulted in five civilian deaths and 46 injuries.

The ministry condemned the strike, describing it as a "barbaric attack" that caused significant casualties, including injuries to seven minors. One child remains in serious condition following surgery, and two adults are being transported to Moscow for further treatment.

According to the ministry, the attack, allegedly carried out by a Czech-made multiple rocket launcher, also caused damage to houses and civilian infrastructure in the region.

In response, the Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case, with officials vowing that those responsible will face severe legal consequences.

The ministry labeled the attack as a "pre-planned and carefully prepared terrorist act of intimidation" by Kyiv and criticized Western countries for allegedly ignoring such "bloody atrocities" while continuing to supply Ukraine with weapons.

The Russian government called on the international community to condemn the strike and distance themselves from what it termed the "Kyiv regime and its Western curators."

Reaffirming its stance, the ministry stated that Russia would continue its military actions in Ukraine until all objectives, including the "denazification and demilitarization" of the country, are met.

This incident is the latest in a series of escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with both nations accusing each other of targeting civilians and breaching international law amid the ongoing conflict. — Agencies