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Military intelligence identifies Russian soldiers involved in deadly Komyshuvakha aid center strike
Ukraine’s military intelligence agency says it has identified a Russian officer and six pilots allegedly involved in a 2 November airstrike on a school in Komyshuvakha, where civilians had gathered to receive humanitarian aid. The strike killed at least 55 people, with more than 50 still missing, and the final death toll has not been established.
HUR says at least four Su-34 fighter-bombers took part, including one that dropped a 3-tonne bomb containing more than 1,000 kilograms of explosives; the crew of a seventh aircraft is still being identified. Rescue work has continued for six days, but crews can work only 15 to 20 minutes at a time because of the threat of further Russian attacks. The damaged underground facility had been the settlement’s only relatively safe shelter and aid distribution point.
In short
- HUR named an officer and six pilots allegedly linked to the strike.
- At least 55 people were killed and more than 50 remain missing.
- Rescue teams face repeated threats as they search the site.
Explained simply
Komyshuvakha is a settlement in Ukraine, where Russia’s full-scale invasion has brought repeated attacks on towns and civilian infrastructure. Humanitarian aid centres distribute essentials such as food and medicine, and may also serve as places where residents can shelter.
Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, known as HUR, gathers information about Russian forces and their operations. Su-34s are Russian military aircraft used to carry out air strikes. Allegations that particular officers or pilots took part in an attack are claims by Ukrainian authorities and may be part of efforts to establish responsibility.
The strike matters because the school was being used by civilians seeking aid, and the damaged underground facility had served as a shelter. Attacks in populated areas can put people at risk and disrupt access to aid and safe places.