A Russian missile strike on Huliaipole in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on July 1 killed Serhii Zakharevych, the commander of the 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade, and injured 30 people. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the attack in his evening address, vowing Ukraine’s resolve to retaliate. The strike occurred in the Kamianske district, where Huliaipole is located, a region close to the front line.
According to Governor Serhii Lysak, the Russian military launched the attack in the early morning hours. Huliaipole, with a pre-war population of approximately 1,200, has become a target for its strategic location. The area is roughly 70 kilometers from the front, making it a key point of contention in the ongoing conflict.
Zelensky emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the attack and expressed his commitment to ensuring justice for the victims. ‘We will definitely respond to the Russians for this attack,’ he stated, highlighting the ongoing military tensions between the two nations. As the investigation progresses, the Ukrainian military continues to prepare for potential retaliatory actions.
Commander Zakharevych, who had led multiple military operations, was a respected figure within the Ukrainian forces. Prior to his current role, he had served in the 30th Separate Mechanized Brigade and the 1st Tank Brigade, with a notable history of combat readiness. His involvement in Ukrainian Special Forces training underscored his expertise in modern warfare.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine expressed its condolences, calling Zakharevych a ‘model of courage and proactive military leadership.’ His death marks a loss for a generation of Ukrainian officers who have shaped the nation’s defense strategy. As the war continues, the emotional and strategic weight of such incidents remains a central focus for the Ukrainian government and military leadership.
Meanwhile, efforts to counter Russian drone attacks are intensifying. Ukraine is deploying new interceptor UAVs to neutralize the threat, as Russian drone swarms have caused significant damage to urban areas. The incident in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast is part of a broader pattern of attacks, reinforcing the need for enhanced defensive capabilities.
Despite the casualties, Ukraine remains determined to protect its territory and maintain the momentum of its military efforts. The response to the attack, both in terms of military actions and public solidarity, continues to shape the narrative of the conflict. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the human toll of the war, as well as its far-reaching implications for the region.