The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, chaired a meeting regarding the tragedy in the town of Vyshneve, where explosions occurred at weapons depots following a Russian missile strike. The Head of State emphasised that the storage of ammunition within the town was a direct violation of the law and the decisions of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Headquarters.
Findings of the investigation: who is to blame for the tragedy
According to a report by a Major General of the SBU Oleksandra Pokladova, the investigation has already identified specific officials at «Ukroboronprom» who are responsible for neglecting safety.
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Breaches of the rules: The heads of the two state-owned enterprises acted in breach of their job descriptions, the law and the High Command’s explicit prohibitions.
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Progress of the investigation: The SBU and the Office of the Prosecutor General are investigating the activities of the deputy heads responsible for security, and are also analysing the actions of other officials involved.
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The government’s position: The President emphasised that any official whose decisions or failure to act led to tragedies, must bear fair responsibility.
Next steps and safety
Volodymyr Zelenskyy instructed the SBU, in conjunction with law enforcement agencies, to carry out inspections of other similar facilities. The President emphasised the need for strict adherence to security protocols:
«There are suitable locations in Ukraine for storing weapons and ammunition – these have all been designated to ensure they are not situated near residential buildings,» said the Head of State.
A reform of internal control processes within Ukroboronprom has also been announced, along with the rapid reconstruction of damaged facilities in the affected communities.
