Ukrainian Official Overseeing Security at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Assassinated

Car Bombing Claims Life of Andriy Korotky

Andriy Korotky, a high-ranking official who was in charge of security at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant now under Russian control, was killed in a car bombing on Friday morning. The attack was carried out by Ukrainian military intelligence GRU. Both Ukraine and Russia have confirmed Korotky's death. The Ukrainian government has labeled him a "collaborator" and "traitor" for his work with Russia. This assassination is part of a series targeting pro-Russian Ukrainians throughout the ongoing war.

GRU Statement on the Assassination

The GRU issued a statement declaring Korotky a "war criminal" who "voluntarily cooperated with the Russian invaders" and participated in the repression of the plant's predominantly Ukrainian technical staff. The statement, released on Telegram, warned that every war criminal would face justice.

Security Incidents at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant

Since Russia took control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant at the beginning of February 2022, there have been several security incidents, including drone activity over the complex. These incidents have raised concerns across Europe due to the potential for a nuclear disaster.

Details of the Car Bombing

Russia’s Investigative Committee reported that an improvised explosive device had been placed under Korotky's car while it was parked at his home. The device detonated shortly after he started the car. Russia has condemned the "terrorist attack committed by the Kiev regime" and insisted that the crime "must be punished". It was confirmed that Korotky died from his injuries in hospital.

Video of the Car Bombing Released

The GRU released a low-quality video of the car bombing, a common practice when such assassinations occur as a warning to other 'collaborators'.

Pro-Russian Ukrainian Officials in the Crosshairs

Many Ukrainian officials appointed by Russia to lead local civic councils in Ukraine's Donbas region have always been pro-Moscow. This highlights the civil war aspect of the conflict, which predates the February 2022 invasion. These officials have often been targeted by pro-Kiev militias since 2014, as part of the self-declared autonomous republics of Donetsk and Luhansk.

Western Media's Portrayal of Andriy Korotky

Interestingly, Western media headlines have labeled the deceased Andriy Korotky as a "Russian", despite him being a Ukrainian who worked for the Russians during the war.

Bottom Line

This incident underscores the high stakes and complex dynamics of the conflict in Ukraine, particularly as it pertains to the critical infrastructure like nuclear power plants. The assassination of Andriy Korotky, a Ukrainian working for the Russians, raises questions about the line between collaboration and survival in a war-torn region. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and discuss. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.