Ukraine Reports Russian Missile Strike on Military Training Ground, Multiple Fatalities
Russian Missile Strike on Military Training Ground
A Russian missile strike hit an army training ground near the village of Cherkaske outside the city of Dnipro, Ukraine, on March 1. The attack, which was carried out using an Iskander-M ballistic missile with a cluster munition, resulted in deaths and injuries, according to Ukraine’s commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky.
Casualties and Investigation
The exact number of fatalities has not been officially released, but a military source told AFP that between 30 and 40 soldiers were killed, and around 90 more were injured. The head of the training centre and commander of the unit have been suspended pending the investigation, which aims to establish all the circumstances and causes of the tragedy.
Condemnation and Criticism
The Ukrainian land forces commander, major-general Mykhailo Drapaty, expressed "heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims," describing the strike as "a terrible consequence of an enemy strike." Ukrainian lawmaker Mariana Bezugla accused commanders of "stupidity" and an "inability to adapt to new realities," claiming that the strike occurred when soldiers were lined up in formation. However, a military source disputed this, stating that there was no gathering of people and that elements of destruction were scattered over a large area.
Context and Reactions
This is not the first time Ukraine has been targeted by Russian missiles. In September last year, a strike on a military institute in Poltava resulted in the death of 60 people. The Ukrainian military has been criticized for its inability to adapt to new realities and for negligence in fulfilling its duties. Major-general Drapaty expressed his anger and frustration, stating that there were "unlearnt lessons" and that he would not allow anyone to "try to hide the truth in the fog of bureaucracy."
Conclusion
The Russian missile strike on the Ukrainian military training ground is a devastating reminder of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and criticism of the Ukrainian military’s handling of the situation. As the investigation continues, questions remain about the exact number of casualties and the circumstances surrounding the attack. One thing is clear, however: the conflict in Ukraine is far from over, and the consequences of Russian aggression will be felt for a long time to come.
FAQs
- What was the location of the Russian missile strike?
The strike hit an army training ground near the village of Cherkaske outside the city of Dnipro, Ukraine. - How many casualties were reported?
The exact number of fatalities has not been officially released, but a military source estimates between 30 and 40 soldiers were killed, and around 90 more were injured. - Who is responsible for the investigation?
A commission has been set up to establish all the circumstances and causes of the tragedy, and the head of the training centre and commander of the unit have been suspended pending the investigation. - What is the context of the conflict?
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia began in 2014, and has resulted in numerous attacks and casualties on both sides.