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Dnipro, Ukraine – Soldiers from the 24th Separate Assault Brigade “Aidar” were attacked in a city within the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on February 21st, according to a statement released by the regiment. The incident, involving six assailants and the discharge of a firearm, has prompted a response from the unit, emphasizing the dangers of targeting military personnel.
The attack occurred even as the soldiers were on personal time, not engaged in official duties and were not provoking or interacting with anyone, according to the regiment’s statement. This detail underscores the unprovoked nature of the assault, raising questions about the motives behind the attack and the safety of off-duty military personnel in the region.
“It is important to emphasize that at the time of the incident, the servicemen were not performing their official duties, were engaged in personal matters, did not provoke anyone and did not commit any actions against other persons,” the regiment stated. “The attack was carried out without any grounds! We must state directly: attacking the military is dangerous and irresponsible. These are trained, experienced assault troopers who have every legitimate right to defend themselves in the event of a threat.”
Notably, the soldiers involved did not return fire, exercising restraint despite the aggression they faced. This decision highlights the discipline within the unit and their adherence to protocols, even when under attack. The 24th Separate Assault Brigade “Aidar” has been actively involved in combat operations since its formation in 2014, participating in key battles across eastern Ukraine, including those around Bakhmut and Vuhledar, as well as more recent engagements in the Sumy region, according to Wikipedia.
History and Formation of the Aidar Regiment
The “Aidar” regiment has a complex history, originating in May 2014 as the 24th Territorial Defense Battalion “Aidar.” It was formed from volunteers, including members of the self-defense forces of Euromaidan, and initially operated in the Luhansk region. As reported by Divgen, the battalion was later reorganized as a storm assault battalion in September 2014 and subsequently integrated into the 10th Mountain Brigade in November 2015, before becoming part of the 53rd Mechanized Brigade in 2016.
The regiment’s name derives from the Aidar River, the site of its first combat engagement. Over the years, it has participated in numerous battles and operations, earning a reputation for its fighting capabilities. However, the unit has also faced scrutiny, with the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) designating it as a “terrorist community” in December 2023, a claim not recognized by Ukraine or international observers.
Current Situation and Potential Implications
The recent attack on soldiers from the “Aidar” regiment raises concerns about the security situation in the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and the potential for escalating tensions. While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, it underscores the ongoing risks faced by Ukrainian military personnel, even when not on active duty. The regiment’s statement serves as a strong warning against targeting soldiers and a reaffirmation of their right to self-defense.
The incident comes as Ukraine continues to defend against the ongoing Russian invasion, with intense fighting concentrated in the eastern and southern regions of the country. The “Aidar” regiment remains actively engaged in these battles, contributing to Ukraine’s defense efforts. Further investigation into the attack is expected to be conducted by local authorities to determine the perpetrators and their motives.
What comes next will depend on the results of the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings. The incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and security measures to protect military personnel and maintain stability in the region.
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