Ukraine orders investigation into Russian attack on assault brigade

The defence minister of Ukraine has ordered an investigation into an alleged Russian ballistic missile attack on a Ukrainian assault brigade. Reports suggest that more than 20 soldiers were killed during an awards ceremony. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers from the 128th Separate Mountain Assault Transcarpathian Brigade in a social media statement. He also stated that he has ordered a “full investigation” into the incident.

Ukraine’s Armed Forces released a separate statement on the Telegram messaging app, claiming that Russia attacked the Zaporizhzhia region with the Iskander ballistic missile. The military further stated that servicemen were killed and local residents were injured as a result of the attack.

The exact number of soldiers who lost their lives has not been confirmed. A series of reports on Ukrainian social media and from military bloggers claimed that more than 20 soldiers were killed in a village near the front lines in Zaporizhzhia during an award ceremony commemorating Artillery Day on Friday.

In its daily reports on battlefield activities, the Russian Defence Ministry acknowledged that Russian forces “inflicted fire” on a unit of Ukraine’s assault brigade in the region, resulting in the deaths of up to 30 military personnel.

The accuracy of these reports could not be independently verified by Reuters. However, it is worth noting that both Russia and Ukraine have often downplayed their military casualties during the 20-month-long war while exaggerating the losses they claim to have inflicted on each other.

This incident has triggered both internal and external responses. The Ukrainian defence minister’s decision to launch a thorough investigation reflects the seriousness and significance that the government attaches to the incident. Meanwhile, additional reporting from Elaine Monaghan in Washington highlights the international interest in the matter.

As the situation unfolds, it is important to closely monitor the developments and await further updates. The investigation, if conducted transparently and objectively, may shed light on the events surrounding the alleged Russian ballistic missile attack and provide clarity on the number of casualties.

The loss of lives and the injuries sustained by both soldiers and civilians underline the devastating consequences of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. It serves as a reminder of the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in order to prevent further human suffering.

Overall, this incident underscores the fragile security situation in the region and the continuous risk faced by military personnel and civilians alike. Efforts must be intensified to de-escalate tensions and foster dialogue between the parties involved, with the ultimate goal of reaching a lasting and peaceful settlement.

Source: Reuters