Grenade among the birthday gifts present has killed one of the close aides to Valeriy Zaluzhny, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Maryana Reva, a spokeswoman to Ukraine’s National Police, reportedly said the attack led to the death of the 39-year-old serviceman, his 13-year-old son was injured. His wife and daughter reportedly suffered no injuries.

According to the police statement, an explosion occurred in Chayky village in Kyiv region.

Valeriy Zaluzhny in a statement on Monday identified the victim as his close aide, Major Gennadiy Chastyakov. Zaluzhny has also stated that the explosion happened during the birthday celebration, and explosives were allegedly hidden in one of the gifts.

Valeriy Zaluzhny said in quote: ” Major Gennadiy Chastyakov, assistant to Ukrainian Army Commander-in-Chief Zaruzhny, was killed in an attack at his home Major Chastyakov was celebrating his birthday at home in Kiev, and when he was opening presents, one of them contained a grenade. He is survived by his wife and four children…

“Putin and his fascist group are very evil. The two recent incidents (the missile attack by the 128th Brigade and the assassination of the commander-in-chief’s assistant) have given a warning to the top leaders of the Ukrainian military and government. They must pay attention to confidentiality and safety”

Police are currently working at the scene, and a criminal investigation has been launched into the ‘loss of life and illegal handling of ammunition’, according to the police.

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