On Monday, November 6, 2023, Major Hennadii Chastiakov, an aide to General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, leader of Ukraine’s armed forces, died following an explosion at his home. The cause was a grenade, given to him as a gift for his 39th birthday, which also severely injured his 13-year-old son.
The incident occurred in the evening, as Chastiakov displayed six new grenades to his family. His son, curious about the grenades, twisted the ring on one of them. Chastiakov took it away from him and the ring detached, causing the explosion that resulted in Chastiakov’s death and his son’s severe injuries.
Ihor Klymenko, the Ukrainian Interior Minister, referred to the event as an accidental occurrence. The grenades were a present from one of Chastiakov’s colleagues. Police later recovered the remaining grenades from his home, and further investigation into the colleague unearthed more grenades in their office.
Ukrainian parliamentarian Mariana Bezuhla stressed the need for a thorough investigation, pointing out that grenades are generally issued under strict conditions and are not meant for personal use or as gifts.
The investigation is ongoing, conducted by Ukrainian law enforcement and military officials, to determine if the incident was accidental or if there were additional factors involved.
Major Hennadii Chastiakov had a distinguished career in the Ukrainian armed forces. His role as an aide to a high-ranking military official was integral in the ongoing Ukrainian conflict. This incident brings to light the perils faced by military personnel and their families, extending beyond the battlefield.