Key facts
- Colonel Volodymyr Kononnikov, commander of Ukraine's 154th Separate Mechanized Brigade, was found dead on June 28.
- Kononnikov was found with a gunshot wound.
- Ukrainian authorities are investigating the death as a potential homicide.
- A criminal case has been opened under Article 115 of Ukraine's Criminal Code.
Colonel Volodymyr Kononnikov, the commander of Ukraine's 154th Separate Mechanized Brigade, was discovered deceased on June 28, according to statements from Ukrainian military and law enforcement officials. The Operational Command South confirmed his death, noting that the circumstances are currently under investigation. The command described Kononnikov as a dedicated officer and responsible commander. The Zaporizhzhia regional police later reported that a military unit commander was found with a gunshot wound, without explicitly naming Kononnikov. Authorities have not provided further details regarding the cause or circumstances of the death. A criminal investigation has been initiated under Article 115 of Ukraine's Criminal Code, which pertains to intentional homicide, with police working to establish the facts surrounding the military officer's demise. The investigation is being conducted by police under the procedural supervision of the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Defense of the Eastern Region.