Ukrainian soldiers are killed in a Russian attack on a ceremony near the front

Many soldiers were killed in a Russian attack during a ceremony in a region near the front in Ukraine, BTA reported, citing DPA.

Soldiers were taking part in a ceremony in Zaporozhye region marking Artillery Day when Russian shells were fired into the area. The Internet portal “Ukrainska Pravda” reported more than 20 killed.

Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed that a “tragedy” had occurred, but did not provide details on the number of victims.

The authorities in Zakarpattia region, where the soldiers are from, today announced three days of mourning. Umerov offered his condolences to the relatives of “the fallen soldiers of the 128th Transcarpathia Mountain Infantry Brigade in his Facebook post. He did not provide details – not even when the attack happened. It is believed to have happened on Friday.” All the circumstances surrounding what happened will be clarified,” he said. “Our enemy is an insidious terrorist.” Relatives and friends will get answers, Umerov promised.

In social media posts, harsh criticism was leveled at the Ukrainian military leadership for allowing the ceremony to take place so close to the front. Ukrainians commented that those responsible for this should be punished.

According to reports, the authorities and the minister confirmed what happened long after the information had already been published on social networks and the media, DPA said.