Andriy Korotkyy, the head of security at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine, was killed in a car bombing on Friday, according to both Ukrainian and Russian authorities. The explosion occurred in the city of Enerhodar, where the plant is located, amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Korotkyy’s vehicle was destroyed by a homemade explosive device planted under the car. Russian investigators confirmed the blast, stating that Korotkyy died from his injuries after being taken to the hospital. The Russian Investigative Committee has launched a criminal investigation into his death, treating it as a murder case.
Ukrainian military intelligence, known as HUR, claimed responsibility for the attack, labeling Korotkyy a “war criminal” and collaborator. HUR accused him of defecting to the Russian occupation authorities, aiding in the repression of Ukrainians under occupation, and providing lists of plant employees with pro-Ukrainian views to Russian forces. A video of the car explosion was posted on Ukrainian military channels, showing a white SUV being ripped apart by a powerful blast.
Ukraine has confirmed that its military intelligence agency assassinated Andriy Korotky, the head of security at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. He was killed after a bomb, planted under his vehicle, detonated as he left his home. pic.twitter.com/9u48EzyBzG
— Real News No Bullshit (@NewsNotBs) October 5, 2024
Korotkyy, a member of the pro-Kremlin United Russia party, also held a position in Enerhodar’s Moscow-installed municipal council. His role at Europe’s largest nuclear facility made him a significant figure in Russia’s occupation of southern Ukraine. The Zaporizhzhia plant has been under Russian control since early 2022, shortly after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The incident has sparked further concerns about the stability and safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The International Atomic Energy Agency has repeatedly called for restraint in the area, warning of the risks of a nuclear disaster due to nearby shelling and drone strikes.
Korotkyy’s death follows a series of similar attacks on Russian-installed officials in occupied Ukraine. Ukrainian intelligence has previously taken responsibility for other high-profile car bombings targeting collaborators, including a pro-Russian lawmaker killed in eastern Ukraine last year.
💥 Russia: Car bomb detonated in Moscow resulting in the loss of both legs for Andrei Torgashov, Deputy Chief of the Satellite Communications Center of the Russian Armed Forces. pic.twitter.com/h4d7K9fTP7
— Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) July 24, 2024
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