- March 16, 2025
- 6:14 pm
- Ukraine
Three years ago, on March 16, 2022, the Russian army carried out one of the most terrifying acts of terror, dropping aviation bombs on the drama theater in Mariupol.
There were about 1300 civilians inside the building, including women and children, who were seeking shelter from the Russian military shelling. At least 300 people died under the rubble, but the actual number may be significantly higher due to the difficulty of accessing the victims.
The Russian occupiers ignored the large letters that were written in front of the theater to indicate: “CHILDREN”.
This tragedy, like many other war crimes, raises the question of how safe the world is when terrorist acts happen on such a scale.
Context of the Tragedy
In early March 2022, Mariupol was completely surrounded by Russian troops. At that time, brutal bombings of residential areas, hospitals, and maternity wards took place. The drama theater became the largest humanitarian center in the city, where tens of thousands of people sought shelter. People were forced to take refuge in the theater because no other places could guarantee safety from air strikes. The theater became a symbol of hope for salvation.
Mariupol Drama Theater: A Symbol of Tragedy
In front of the theater, local residents wrote large letters to indicate the presence of civilians. These words — “CHILDREN” — were supposed to signal to the aviation that there were women and children inside. However, the Russian aviation ignored this and at 10:00 AM dropped two powerful bombs, which destroyed the theater. The theater was almost completely destroyed, and the roof collapsed under the force of the explosion.
Key Points of the Tragedy:
- Location: The theater in Mariupol, located in the city center.
- Number of people in the theater: around 1300 civilians.
- Target of the strike: The drama theater, which was a civilian object, had no military connections.
- Number of victims: At least 300 people died under the rubble, but the actual number may be much higher, considering the difficulty of accessing the victims.
This strike became one of the most striking examples of how Russian forces ignored humanitarian principles and international law by subjecting civilian infrastructure to direct destruction.
International Reaction
On the international stage, there was a broad resonance regarding this act of violence. It is important to note that international investigations, including those by the International Criminal Court, were initiated after this tragedy to investigate Russia’s crimes. However, despite the efforts of international organizations, the investigation and the restoration of justice have been delayed.
Mariupol was completely occupied by Russian forces, which complicated the investigation and also made the city’s reconstruction and infrastructure recovery more difficult.
Reactions from Ukraine and the World
Against the backdrop of these tragic events, Ukraine actively drew attention to the brutality of Russian aggression. Already in March 2022, Ukraine began forming plans to rebuild the destroyed cities and create memorials to honor the victims. It is important to note that on March 14, 2025, Ukrainian postal service presented a stamp dedicated to the memory of those who died in Mariupol. This stamp became a symbol that the world should not forget what happened and that Ukraine will continue to fight for truth and justice.
Condition of the Drama Theater as of March 2025
Today, the destroyed Mariupol Drama Theater is in the process of reconstruction but under the control of the occupying authorities. Officials report that the building’s restoration is nearing completion, with the planned opening at the end of 2025. However, almost nothing remains of the original building. On the site of the theater, a new “Russian theater” is being built, which is a clear attempt to rewrite history and hide the crimes committed by Russian troops.
Note on the Article
For Israel and for Jews, especially those with connections to Ukraine, the tragedy in Mariupol takes on special significance. In this context, it is important to understand that this attack is yet another reminder of how the brutality of Russian aggression threatens not only Ukraine but also innocent civilians worldwide. This tragedy resonates with everyone who is concerned about the fate of people affected by war crimes.
Mariupol in the Memory of Ukrainians and the World
The stamp issued by Ukrposhta symbolizes not only the memory of the dead but also the continuation of the fight for justice. Ukraine does not forget its heroes, and the memory of the tragedy in Mariupol will live in the hearts of people around the world.
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