Syrsky responded to the scandal in the “Skelya” regiment and announced strict measures
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi called the violations documented in a journalistic investigation at the 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya” unacceptable and shameful for the army of a country at war. He emphasized that service members must under no circumstances die in the rear but must undergo high-quality training to defend the state.
Internal oversight bodies, including the Military Law Enforcement Service (VSP) and the military ombudsman, conducted inspections of the unit as early as last winter, which led to the opening of several criminal cases. However, for a long time, the leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine considered the issue resolved due to misinformation from the regiment’s command, which reported that the offenders had been transferred to other units and that all necessary measures had been taken.
Following the disclosure of new evidence of violations, a comprehensive commission headed by Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Brigadier General Oleksandr Shevchenko, was immediately dispatched to the “Skelya” regiment. The officers will inspect all locations, training grounds, and training centers, and will determine the actual whereabouts of those implicated in the cases. The Commander-in-Chief assured that, based on the findings of the inspection and the State Bureau of Investigations, all those responsible will face severe disciplinary or criminal liability, and appropriate legal decisions will be made regarding the unit’s leadership.
The general made this statement in an interview with TSN.
Earlier, the 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya” denied allegations of beating conscripts who later died, stating that the causes of death were primarily related to underlying medical conditions or accidents. The unit emphasizes that it is cooperating with the investigation and wants a full investigation into every case, without exception.
In March, at least five recruits from the 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya” died less than two weeks after being mobilized. According to official data as of May 19, the causes of death were heart and lung diseases.
The 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya” responded to media reports about the deaths of recruits while on duty. The unit stated that it is ready to cooperate with law enforcement and urged people not to jump to conclusions. Military officials emphasize that each case must be investigated separately.
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