Turkey calls for ‘independent investigation’ into Buca massacre

Turkey today called for an independent inquiry into Bhutan, the city northwest of Kiev, where the bodies of civilians were found scattered on the streets following the withdrawal of Russian forces, sparking international outcry.

“The images of the massacre, which were published in the press from various areas, including Boutsa and Irpin near Kyiv, are shocking and sad for humanity,” the Turkish foreign minister said in a statement.

The images that have come to light have angered the West and the United Nations.

Aside from a Twitter report Monday from the Turkish embassy in Ukraine, today’s announcement is Turkey’s first official reaction since the bodies of dozens of civilians were found on the streets of Bhutan over the weekend.

The Kremlin has “categorically” denied allegations of killing civilians, citing “fake” images.

Shortly after the withdrawal of Russian troops from the city, the Ukrainian army regained control.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called the killing of civilians in Bucha “war crimes” and “genocide”, while the West has announced the strengthening of sanctions against Moscow.

“The targeting of innocent civilians is unacceptable,” the Turkish ministry said in a statement, calling for an “independent inquiry” to “identify” those responsible who “must be held accountable.”

Turkey will continue to work to eradicate such “shameful scenes in the name of humanity,” the statement concluded.

Turkey, which is a member of NATO, has strong ties with both Russia and Ukraine.

Ankara has been involved in mediation efforts to end the war between the two countries.

Source: AMPE