Ukrainian Woman Among Victims of Magdeburg Christmas Market Attack

On December 20, a vehicle drove into a crowd at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, resulting in casualties and injuries. Among those injured was a Ukrainian citizen, born in 1972, who remains in critical condition.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, the woman is being treated at a German medical facility. Ukrainian Embassy representatives and consular staff are in contact with the hospital, ensuring necessary assistance.

“We hope for her swift recovery,” stated Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhiy Tykhyi.

The incident occurred at the Old Market near Magdeburg’s town hall, where the vehicle traveled nearly 400 meters through the crowd despite security measures. The attack claimed five lives, including a nine-year-old child, and left more than 200 people injured. Reports indicate that 40 individuals are in critical condition, with at least 90 sustaining severe injuries.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha commented on the incident, writing, “Shocking reports of a brutal attack against a Christmas market in German Magdeburg. Our sympathy is with the close ones of the victims, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured. Violence has no excuse and shall never prevail. We stand in solidarity with our German friends.”

Authorities identified the suspect as a 50-year-old psychiatrist of Saudi Arabian origin who has lived in Germany since 2006 and holds permanent residency. The man was arrested at the scene, and an investigation is underway. German prosecutors may take over the case, given its severity.