New York, June 18, 2002—The Committee to Protect Journalists is concerned by the recent attack on German Galkin, deputy editor of the local newspaper Vecherny Chelyabinsk in the Ural city of Chelyabinsk.

Two unknown assailants assaulted Galkin outside of his apartment on the evening of Friday, June 14, according to Russian news reports. The journalist suffered minor injuries as a result.

Galkin, who is also a correspondent with the Moscow-based daily Kommersant, believes the attack is connected to his critical coverage of local officials.

Local police are investigating the incident.