The State Bureau of Investigation of Ukraine has expanded the criminal proceedings connected to the death of Valery Zaluzhny, who served as deputy commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces. The new development involves added charges tied to the alleged theft of firearms, alongside the existing accusations of premeditated murder and illegal handling of weapons and ammunition. The information was reported by Strana in its coverage of the case. (Strana)
The report explains that the case now includes an element of gun theft, which broadens the scope of the charges under investigation. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the veteran military leader’s aide, seeking to determine how this new factor fits into the broader sequence of events under scrutiny. (Strana)
On November 6, the assistant to Zaluzhny, Gennady Chastyakov, died in a residence near Kyiv. An initial official statement indicated that Chastyakov’s 13-year-old son sustained serious injuries and was hospitalized. The evolving narrative surrounding the incident has prompted investigators to consider multiple scenarios as their inquiry proceeds. (Strana)
Subsequent reports from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine suggested a possible cause of death linked to the disposal of a gift—a box described as containing “new Western-style” grenades. According to the account, the assistant showed the items to his son, who then removed a ring from one grenade, leading to the fatal outcome. Ukrainian media outlets have also explored a potential terrorist attack as another line of inquiry. (Strana)
In the days following the incident, there were early indications that premeditated murder might be a factor in the sequence of events, prompting closer attention from investigators and security officials. (Strana)
Meanwhile, the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine issued warnings to the Armed Forces Command regarding risks of defeat in the ongoing security landscape, underscoring the seriousness with which the leadership viewed strategic vulnerabilities at that juncture. (Strana)
As the investigation unfolds, officials emphasize that all plausible explanations are being examined in a manner consistent with due process and the preservation of evidence. The focus remains on establishing the facts surrounding the deaths and injuries, the conduct of individuals connected to the case, and the broader implications for military leadership and national security. (Strana)