On February 20, a Russian drone strike in Kharkiv Oblast's Kupiansk district resulted in the deaths of two police officers who were part of the 'White Angels' evacuation unit. The officers were performing a humanitarian mission to evacuate civilians when their armored vehicle was struck by a Russian Lancet loitering munition. The attack took place near the village of Serednii Burluk, leading to the immediate deaths of 23-year-old Yuliia Keleberda and 39-year-old Yevhen Kalhan, while another officer sustained injuries.

The 'White Angels' unit, created during the early stages of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has been dedicated to saving civilians from highly dangerous areas. Their missions play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. These officers are particularly noteworthy for their bravery, as they operate in frontline regions where the risk is exceptionally high.

This tragic incident underscores the ongoing dangers faced by emergency services and humanitarian actors in Ukraine amidst the conflict. The continued targeting of civilian evacuations raises significant concerns about the protection of humanitarian workers and the worsening humanitarian situation in the region, as military actions persist despite ongoing calls for peace and negotiation efforts.