Five Russian Commanders Charged by Ukraine’s SBU for Deadly Missile Strike on Kryvyi Rih That Killed 13.

Charges Filed Over Kryvyi Rih Missile Attack

According to Novyny.live: Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has leveled charges against five Russian nationals accused of orchestrating the missile strike on Kryvyi Rih in June 2023, an attack that claimed the lives of 13 local residents. The assault occurred on June 23, 2023, and caused significant civilian casualties, highlighting the ongoing threat to non-combatants in the conflict.

The strike involved Kh-101 cruise missiles launched from Tu-95MS strategic bombers. It resulted in 13 fatalities and left over 30 civilians wounded, with a total of 27 people sustaining injuries of varying severity. The attack on Kryvyi Rih drew widespread condemnation both in Ukraine and internationally, underscoring the grave impact of strikes on civilian populations during armed hostilities.

Individuals Named in the Indictment

The SBU has formally accused the following five individuals:

• Sergei Surovikin
• Sergei Dronov
• Sergei Kobylash
• Mykola Varpakhovych
• Oleh Skitskyi

All are suspected of violating the laws and customs of war, as outlined in Part 2 of Article 28 and Part 2 of Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The investigation remains active as authorities seek accountability for this devastating crime.

This case is part of a broader pattern of alleged war crimes during the Ukraine-Russia conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for international scrutiny and justice. The tragedy in Kryvyi Rih serves as a stark reminder of the imperative to protect civilians in war zones and the severe consequences such attacks have on innocent lives. Pursuing charges marks a critical step toward delivering justice for the victims and holding perpetrators of war crimes accountable.