Ukraine has accused Russia of shelling the town of Bakhmut with phosphorus munitions.
Drone footage released by the Ukrainian military shows Bakhmut on fire as white phosphorus rains down on the city. The use of white phosphorus weapons in civilian areas is considered a war crime. It creates rapidly spreading fires that are very difficult to extinguish. Due to its high combustion temperature (up to 1300 °C), the phosphorus charge sets everything on fire.
Not enough shells, but more than enough phosphorus.
– Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) May 5, 2023
Ruscists are shelling unoccupied areas of Bakhmut with incendiary ammunition.
They will burn in Hell.
📷 @SOF_UKR pic.twitter.com/7oqNTumJ34
Burning white phosphorus causes severe burns if it comes into contact with human skin, and after phosphorus enters the body, it causes poisoning, which leads to martyrdom. If inhaled, white phosphorus can burn the lungs.
The use of phosphorus bombs is prohibited by the Geneva Convention.
Russia has been trying to capture Bakhmut for several months now, despite its dubious strategic value. Western officials estimate that thousands of Russian troops were killed in the assault.
Ukraine's Defense Ministry tweeted that the phosphorus attack was aimed at "unoccupied areas of Bakhmut using incendiary munitions."