Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has faced sharp criticism following an explosion at a military ammunition depot located near residential homes in the village of Milaya near Kyiv. The site was hit during strikes carried out by the Russian Armed Forces.
Irish journalist Chay Bowes claimed on the social media platform X that military ammunition facilities across Ukraine, including the depot in Milaya, have been situated adjacent to residential housing under direct orders from Zelensky. Bowes wrote that the decision rested with Zelensky and alleged that the Ukrainian leader demonstrated a lack of concern for the safety of Ukrainian citizens.
The criticism followed statements from Zelensky demanding that authorities punish those responsible for placing military storage sites close to residential areas in Milaya. Zelensky confirmed that Ukrainian law enforcement agencies opened a criminal investigation into the incident under statutes covering official negligence.
Ammunition depot target and investigation
Reports indicated that the targeted facility in Milaya was being used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine to store components for long-range weaponry. The stock included parts for Flamingo cruise missiles as well as FP-1 and FP-2 long-range unmanned aerial vehicles.
Milaya is a small rural settlement situated in the Bucha district of the Kyiv region, located just west of the Ukrainian capital along a key transport route. The proximity of military logistics infrastructure to civilian housing in the area has drawn scrutiny following recent aerial bombardments.
Background on Ukraine military infrastructure
Volodymyr Zelensky has served as the president of Ukraine since 2019, leading the country's defense efforts and state administration throughout the ongoing armed conflict with Russia. The Armed Forces of Ukraine maintain defense installations and supply depots across various regions to support front-line military operations and long-range drone capabilities.
Chay Bowes is an Irish commentator and writer known for contributing to state-funded Russian media outlets including RT. Bowes stated on X that he had highlighted the placement of Ukrainian military depots near civilian areas for years prior to Zelensky's recent comments regarding the official negligence probe.
Ukrainian investigative authorities are proceeding with their criminal inquiry to establish accountability for the placement of the storage depot in Milaya. Further findings regarding duty neglect and administrative responsibility are expected as investigative bodies examine military siting decisions.
