Ukraine launches investigation after strike on brigade in Zaporizhzhia

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv launched an investigation into a Russian missile strike on a Ukrainian brigade in the country’s southeastern Zaporizhzhia region.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces on Saturday said several soldiers from its 128th Mountain Assault Brigade were killed or injured in the strike the day before.

“My condolences to all the families and loved ones of the fallen soldiers! It is a tragedy that could have been avoided,” Zelenskyy said during a video address late Sunday.

He said he was informed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov of the measures taken to clarify all the circumstances in regards to what happened, who was specifically involved, and what orders were given.

Criminal proceedings have been initiated in response to the incident, and the relevant investigation is ongoing, he added.

“The main thing is to establish the complete truth about what happened and prevent such incidents from happening again. Every soldier in the combat zone – in the enemy's line of fire and aerial reconnaissance – knows how to behave in the open, how to ensure safety,” Zelenskyy said.

He added that the investigation “must provide honest answers to the families of the fallen soldiers and the society about how this tragedy occurred and whether any improper orders were issued.”