The State Bureau of Investigation of Ukraine (SBI) names the death of Gennady Chastyakov, a deputy commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as the leading version in the case surrounding Valery Zaluzhny. This update was issued on the SBI’s Telegram channel, presenting the latest assessment from investigators.
Beyond this primary scenario, SBI officials indicate several other potential explanations are being explored. These include allegations of a contract killing involving Russian special services, a possible attempt on the life of another high-ranking officer within the Commander-in-Chief’s apparatus, and a version that the death occurred at the hands of Russian agents driven by personal animosity. The bureau emphasizes that all angles are under scrutiny as part of a comprehensive inquiry.
The incident occurred on November 6, when Major Gennady Chastyakov, serving as a deputy commander-in-chief, died in a blast that coincided with his birthday. The event also seriously injured his children, who were hospitalized in stable to serious condition depending on the family member. The deputy commander-in-chief’s son remains in serious condition, while his daughter’s condition is listed as moderate. The personal impact of the tragedy has drawn widespread attention and concern for the family involved.
Early statements from authorities attributed the incident to the careless handling or use of ammunition. Maryana Reva, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs, initially framed the cause as an accident stemming from improper firearm or explosive handling.
Igor Klimenko, head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, subsequently described the event as an accident in which Chastyakov received a box described as containing “new Western-style” grenades as a gift. According to the account, Chastyakov brought the box home and showed it to his family. The deputy commander-in-chief’s son took one grenade, began to twist its securing ring, and, in an unforeseen sequence, the father intervened to take the ammunition away. For reasons that have not yet been established, the other ring was pulled, triggering an explosion at the residence and causing the fatal injuries that followed.
In the broader security sphere, officials from the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine had previously issued warnings to the Armed Forces about the risk of defeat or setback in operations. The evolving investigation continues to weigh this incident within the larger context of ongoing defense and security concerns facing the country.