On 22 June, a Russian missile struck a temporary training ground used by Ukraine’s Ground Forces, killing three soldiers and injuring 14 others, according to multiple official statements. The site was located in Kherson Oblast and used for periodic exercises by a mechanized brigade.

Strike on temporary camp during active exercises

The Ground Forces reported that the missile hit during scheduled exercises on a temporary site used by one of their mechanized brigades.

“Today, 22 June, the enemy launched a missile strike on a training ground of one of the mechanized brigades of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, where training sessions were underway,” the official statement read.

According to spokesperson Vitalii Sarantsev, the missile was likely an Iskander-M ballistic missile. He told national television that the location was not a permanent deployment zone, but a temporary site used specifically for training tasks.

Partial non-compliance with safety protocols

Sarantsev stated that while the majority of troops responded quickly to the alarm and reached shelters, “some servicemen neglected safety measures—and most of those who did were the ones who got injured.” He emphasized that troops had been dispersed to shelters just minutes before the missile landed.

Casualties, response, and medical aid

Ukraine’s Ground Forces reported that prompt implementation of safety protocols helped prevent greater casualties. Still, three deaths were confirmed, and by 19:27, the number of injured had climbed to 14. Medical facilities provided urgent treatment to all wounded, the military said.

A special commission has been set up by the Ground Forces Command to investigate the circumstances of the strike. Law enforcement agencies are also working at the site. Military officials confirmed that additional protective measures are being implemented to safeguard personnel from potential future attacks.

Leadership change follows earlier strike

This is not the first time Russian forces have targeted Ukrainian training grounds. Earlier in June, after a missile strike on a training area in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, General-Major Mykhailo Drapatyi resigned as commander of the Ground Forces, citing personal responsibility. 

He was later appointed Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, responsible for military operations. Brigadier General Shapovalov took over as Ground Forces commander on 19 June.

Zelenskyy reacts to latest strike

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the missile strike in his 22 June evening video message.

“I am expecting a full report on the consequences and all circumstances of the Russian missile strike on the training ground in southern Ukraine,” he stated. “There were casualties, there were wounded. Full accountability is required.”