Andrei Korotki, a high-ranking member of the security team at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the largest facility of its kind in Europe, was killed in a car explosion, the Russian Investigative Committee announced.

The Ukrainian military intelligence service welcomed the incident in Zaporizhzhia on Telegram, but did not take responsibility for the case.

According to Russian investigators, an improvised explosive device was planted under Korotki’s vehicle, who was in charge of one of the security departments at the nuclear power plant, and was also a member of the local council in the nearby town of Energodar.

The device detonated shortly after Korotki entered his car. He later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.

The Ukrainian military intelligence agency posted on Telegram that Korotki was a „war criminal“ and „collaborator“ because of his decision to cooperate with Russia.

He was also accused of organizing „events in support of the Russian army“ and joining the party United Russia.

The agency also released a video showing the moment of the explosion with a promise to „avenge“ anyone they deem a „war criminal“.

The Investigative Committee announced that they have launched a criminal investigation for the murder, but no suspect has been named.

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been under Russian control since March 2022. During the conflict, Moscow and Kyiv have accused each other of shelling the facility multiple times, and the Russian Ministry of Defense stated that several attempts by Ukrainian assault units to retake it were repelled.

Additionally, Ukrainian forces confirmed their withdrawal from Vuhlehirsk on Wednesday, noting that Russia managed to send reinforcements to the flanks.

Putin says the truth is on the Russian side and that all goals will be achieved.

The assassination of Andrei Korotki has raised concerns about the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict in the region. It remains to be seen how this incident will impact the situation and whether it will lead to further violence or unrest.