May 9 events: US says it condemns ‘violence and vandalism’

State Dept Spokesperson urges govt to handle protests according to the 'rule of law' and 'free speech' principles

WASHINGTON:

The US State Department reaffirmed its support for the right to peaceful protest while condemning violent actions, including vandalism and arson, during a news briefing on Monday.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of exercising freedom of speech and expression "in a legitimate manner" when he was questioned about May 9 riots of Pakistan.

"We support legitimate, free expression, including the right to protest, the right to peaceful assembly, and we oppose violent actions, we oppose vandalism, looting, arson," Miller stated.

He urged governments to handle protests by upholding the rule of law and respecting freedom of expression.

Responding to a question about the May 9 riots in Pakistan, Miller expressed the United States' stance against violence. The riots, which erupted after the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, saw protesters attacking military installations and causing damage estimated at 1.9 billion rupees.

"We partner with a range of Pakistani civilian institutions and regularly engage the Government of Pakistan to identify opportunities to build capacity and strengthen regional security," Miller added, highlighting ongoing cooperation efforts to address local security challenges.

The violent protests on May 9 were reminiscent of the January 6 attack on Capitol Hill in the United States. The military has since termed May 9 as "Black Day" and announced plans to try the protesters under the Army Act.

Matthew Miller responded to questions regarding the challenges in assessing strikes in Gaza, particularly those involving US weapons.

When pressed on the disparity in information gathering between Gaza and Ukraine conflicts, Miller acknowledged the complexities involved.

Miller highlighted the difficulties in determining responsibility and targeting in Gaza, citing instances where attacks involve exchanges of fire between Hamas and the IDF.

He noted, "Sometimes it's unclear whether damage was caused by IDF munitions, Hamas munitions, or both."

Regarding the comparison with Ukraine, Miller emphasized differences in conflict context.

"Ukrainian military doesn’t hide behind civilians, unlike Hamas," he explained, pointing out Hamas' tactic of using civilians as shields.

Addressing criticisms about delays in conclusions regarding Israeli strikes, Miller asserted consistency in approach but noted the challenge of conflicting claims and the absence of clear accountability from all parties involved. He stressed the necessity for a thorough investigation in complex conflict zones like Gaza.

The US State Department affirmed on Friday that a deadly missile attack on a children's hospital in Kyiv was carried out by Russian forces, dismissing claims by Moscow suggesting Ukrainian responsibility.

Speaking at a press briefing, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned the strike as part of Russia's ongoing assault on civilian infrastructure across Ukraine. "We are sure it was a Russian attack," Miller stated, noting reports of at least 23 civilian casualties in today's missile strikes.

"These are sites that serve no military purpose," Miller emphasized, "These are civilian infrastructure, pure and simple, that cannot, should not, must not be targets of military attacks."

The attack prompted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to declare a day of mourning, further escalating tensions in the region amid ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Miller's comments underscored longstanding US concerns over Russia's actions in Ukraine, criticizing what he described as a pattern of deliberate targeting of non-military sites.

The US State Department also unequivocally attributed the bombing of a children's hospital in Kyiv to Russian forces, rejecting Russian allegations of Ukrainian involvement.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned the attack as part of Russia's broader military campaign against civilian targets in Ukraine. "We are sure it was a Russian attack," Miller asserted, citing reports of civilian casualties in multiple Ukrainian cities.

"These sites have no military purpose," Miller emphasized, "They are civilian infrastructure that should be off-limits in any conflict."

The strike, which coincided with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's declaration of a national day of mourning, has drawn international condemnation and heightened diplomatic tensions.