A Russian missile attack on July 1, 2025, caused a tragic loss for Ukraine. The strike targeted Huliaipole, a small village in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. According to President Volodymyr Zelensky, the commander of the 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade, Serhii Zakharevych, was killed in the attack. Alongside this devastating loss, 30 other individuals were reported injured.
Deadly Morning Strike Hits Huliaipole
The attack occurred in the morning hours when Russian forces launched missiles at the Kamianske district, where Huliaipole is located. The region is situated about 70 kilometers (roughly 40 miles) from the front line of ongoing conflict. Governor Serhii Lysak confirmed the attack and reported the damages caused.
Huliaipole, a village with a pre-war population of around 1,200, has witnessed an increase in hostilities in recent months. This recent strike adds to the growing number of civilian and military casualties in the region. The injuries sustained by the 30 people include both military personnel and local residents, though their specific conditions have not yet been publicly detailed.
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President Zelensky, in his evening national address, condemned the missile attack. He stated, “We will definitely respond to the Russians for this attack.” He also mentioned that an investigation is underway and that he is waiting for a full report from Ukraine’s military command.
Who Was Commander Serhii Zakharevych?
Commander Serhii Zakharevych was a key figure in Ukraine’s military leadership. He recently took command of the 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade in February 2025. Before this, he had served as the deputy commander of the 33rd Mechanized Brigade.
Zakharevych had a long and respected military career. He graduated from the Odesa Institute of the Ground Forces, one of the most prominent military schools in Ukraine. His first assignment after graduation was as a platoon leader in the reconnaissance company of the 30th Separate Mechanized Brigade. He also served in the 1st Tank Brigade, gaining valuable experience on the battlefield.
His service record includes the development and leadership of three qualification training courses designed for Ukrainian Special Forces. He also headed the 47th Special Forces detachment, participating in several critical combat missions. These experiences helped him become a symbol of courage and leadership among his fellow soldiers.
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The General Staff of Ukraine issued a public statement following his death. The statement read, “Our army has lost another representative of a new generation of Ukrainian officers who grew up in combat and became models of courage and proactive military leadership.”
Zakharevych’s dedication to the defense of Ukraine and his role in training special forces underlined his importance not just as a commander but also as a mentor and leader. His loss is being deeply mourned by both his brigade and the wider Ukrainian defense community.
Ongoing Investigation and Official Response in Huliaipole
The Ukrainian military has launched an official investigation into the Russian missile strike that led to this deadly outcome. President Zelensky emphasized that he is awaiting a full report from the military command to understand the details of the attack and its implications.
Governor Serhii Lysak of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast confirmed that emergency teams had been dispatched to Huliaipole to provide aid to the injured and begin repair and recovery efforts. The Ukrainian government has not released the identities of the other injured individuals, but medical care and support are being given.
Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s determination to hold Russia accountable for such attacks. While no specific counteractions were announced, his speech reflected the gravity of the incident. Ukrainian leaders have been consistently highlighting the rising toll of missile strikes on both civilians and military personnel.
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Huliaipole and other nearby settlements have become frequent targets due to their proximity to the front lines. As a result, many residents live in fear, with little warning before missile attacks occur. This has created a challenging environment for both local populations and the Ukrainian military units based there.
Emergency responders and regional authorities continue to assess the damage and support recovery operations in the area. Details about the exact type of missile used or the intended military target have not yet been made public by Ukrainian officials.
