In a tragic incident that underscores the dangers faced by journalists covering the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Anna Prokofieva, a 35-year-old military correspondent for Russian state television Channel One, was killed after stepping on a landmine in the Belgorod region, near the Ukrainian border. The incident occurred on March 26, 2025, as Prokofieva and her cameraman, Dmitry Volkov, were performing their professional duties when their vehicle struck an enemy mine.
Channel One confirmed the news, stating, "Anna Prokofieva died while performing her professional duty. The film crew was blown up by an enemy mine." Volkov sustained serious injuries, including burns to his face, forearms, and upper respiratory tract, and was rushed to a hospital in the Kursk region.
Prokofieva, who graduated from the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia with a degree in journalism, had been a prominent figure in war reporting since joining Channel One in 2023. Fluent in Spanish, she previously worked in the Spanish editorial office of the Russia Today agency and had been known for her strong support of the Russian military efforts in Ukraine.
Her last post on Telegram, dated March 25, read, "Somewhere on the border with country 404..."—a reference to Ukraine, often humorously referred to in Russian media as a non-existent entity. Prokofieva had gained a following of over 12,000 subscribers on the platform, where she regularly shared updates from the front lines.
The Belgorod region, where the incident took place, has been the site of increased military activity and reported incursions by Ukrainian forces. Just prior to Prokofieva's death, the region had seen multiple artillery strikes and drone attacks attributed to the ongoing conflict. The Russian foreign ministry has accused Ukraine of targeting journalists, with spokesperson Maria Zakharova stating, "These are our journalists, these are war correspondents... they have become a target."
Prokofieva's death comes in the wake of a particularly deadly period for journalists in the region. Just one day earlier, two other Russian journalists—Alexander Fedorchak of Izvestia and Andrei Panov of Zvezda TV—were killed in a separate incident in eastern Ukraine's Luhansk region. Their driver, Alexander Sirkeli, was also among the fatalities. These incidents highlight the perilous conditions under which journalists operate in conflict zones, where they risk their lives to report on the unfolding events.
According to reports, at least 21 journalists have been killed in Ukraine since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. The Committee to Protect Journalists has documented these fatalities, emphasizing the significant risks faced by media workers in war-torn areas.
Prokofieva was known for her dedication to her craft, often venturing into the most dangerous areas to deliver news from the front lines. Fellow war correspondents expressed their condolences and admiration for her bravery. One colleague remarked, "Anna always had to find her way to the most 'heated' areas where she could deliver the most information back to viewers."
The impact of her reporting was significant, particularly in a media landscape dominated by state narratives. Channel One, where she worked, is approximately 40% state-owned and is known for its pro-Putin stance. Prokofieva's work contributed to this narrative, often portraying the Russian military's actions in a favorable light.
In the wake of her passing, many in the media community have called for greater protections for journalists working in conflict zones. The dangers they face are exacerbated by the ongoing hostilities and the lack of secure environments for reporting. As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, the need for accurate and fearless journalism remains critical.
As news of Prokofieva's death spreads, it serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by journalists in their pursuit of truth. Her legacy will undoubtedly resonate within the journalistic community, inspiring future generations to report fearlessly, even in the face of danger.
As the conflict in Ukraine rages on, the deaths of journalists like Anna Prokofieva highlight the urgent need for safety measures and international support for media workers. The world watches as the situation unfolds, hoping for a resolution that will allow for safe and free reporting in the region.
