French photojournalist killed by Russian drone strike in Donetsk region

This was reported by the 4th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade on Facebook.

“As a result of a targeted strike by an enemy FPV drone, French journalist and photographer Antoni Lallican was killed. Working with him at the site was Kyiv Independent journalist and photographer, member of the Ukrainian Association of Professional Photographers, Hryhorii Ivanchenko. He was wounded, and his condition is currently stable,” the statement read.

It was emphasized that both media representatives were wearing personal protective equipment and vests marked PRESS.

“The enemy once again cynically violated international humanitarian law. This fact again confirms the treachery and brutality of the Russian army,” the brigade stressed.

According to Serhii Tomilenko, head of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, the attack occurred in the morning of October 3 near Druzhkivka, Donetsk region.

Macron’s reaction

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the journalist’s death from a Russian drone strike and expressed condolences to his family.

“Our compatriot, photojournalist Antoni Lallican, was accompanying Ukrainian soldiers on the front of resistance. With deep sorrow, I learned of his death in a Russian drone strike. I extend my sincere condolences to his family, loved ones and all his colleagues who, at the risk of their lives, inform us and bear witness to the reality of war,” Macron wrote on X.

Reaction of Ukraine’s foreign minister

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha expressed condolences and stressed that Russia continues to deliberately target journalists.

“Russia continues to deliberately assault journalists, which is a horrific crime and a violation of international humanitarian law. We will make every effort to bring those responsible to justice. Antoni’s courage in informing the world about Russian aggression will never be forgotten,” he emphasized.