Reuters visiting the Russian-controlled city of Mariupol confirmed that authorities began to demolish and clear what is left of the Drama Theater
Russia's Tass news agency quoted the theatre's director, Igor Solonin, as saying that the demolition concerned "only that part of the building that is impossible to restore". Plans called for reconstruction to be complete by the end of 2024.
The bombing of the theatre was part of a protracted Russian siege of Mariupol, a port on the Sea of Azov seen as critical to Russian supply lines between areas its forces control in southern and eastern Ukraine. Civilians had taken refuge in the theatre and large signs emblazoned simply with "Children" had been erected on either side of it. Ukrainian officials said at least 300 people were killed during the Russian bombing, though some estimates said the toll was higher.Mariupol held out for more than two months out against Russian assaults which left most of its buildings in ruins.
Petro Andryushchenko, an advisor to the exiled mayor of Mariupol, said that despite demolition, the truth about the theatre bombing "will not stay hidden no matter what they do. There is enough video evidence, witness testimonies and those who survived."
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