The Mariupol drama theater, used as a shelter for about 1,200 civilians during the Russian siege, was bombed by Russian aircraft on March 16, 2022. Despite the word 'DETI' (children) written in large letters on the ground visible from satellite, the attack caused at least 300-600 deaths according to UN estimates and Ukrainian authorities.
Investigations: Amnesty International documented the use of two unguided 500kg aerial bombs. OSCE investigations and satellite analysis confirm intentional targeting of civilians. The organization concluded that the attack was "almost certainly" conducted by Russian fighter aircraft.
Context: The theater was clearly recognizable as a civilian object, perhaps more so than any other location in the city. It was a distribution center for medicine, food and water, and a gathering point for people awaiting evacuation via humanitarian corridors.
Timeline: March 5 - siege begins; March 16 - bombing at 10:00 AM; March 21 - theater liberated; March 25 - City Council estimates 300 dead; May 2022 - AP documents up to 600 victims; June 30, 2022 - Amnesty International publishes final report.
Evidence: Satellite imagery clearly showed the word "DETI" (children) written in giant white letters on the pavement in front and behind the building, visible to Russian pilots and from satellite imagery.