Ukraine Police Head Steps Down After Shooting Incident

Ukraine’s patrol police chief Yevhen Zhukov resigned after two officers faced backlash for allegedly fleeing a deadly mass shooting in Kyiv. The incident occurred in the Holosiivskyi district, where a gunman opened fire on civilians in the street and later took hostages inside a supermarket. Authorities confirmed that six people were killed and 14 others were injured. Police later confronted and killed the attacker during a shoot-out. The shocking event triggered public outrage and raised concerns about police response.

Videos circulating online appeared to show officers leaving civilians behind and running away from the scene. Ukraine’s Interior Minister Igor Klymenko confirmed that authorities suspended the officers involved and launched an investigation into their actions. He stressed that police must uphold their duty to “serve and protect,” especially during life-threatening situations. However, he also warned against judging the entire police force based on the actions of a few individuals. Officials are now closely examining the conduct of the officers.

Zhukov stated that the officers failed to properly assess the situation and left civilians in danger. He described their actions as unprofessional and unacceptable. Taking responsibility as a senior officer, he announced his resignation from the position. Authorities have classified the shooting as a terrorist act, although they have not yet confirmed a clear motive. Officials also noted that the attacker appeared to be mentally unstable, adding another layer to the ongoing investigation.

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Ukraine Police Chief Resigns After Officers Flee Shooting

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the officers, stating that they were present at the scene but did not attempt to stop the attacker. He accused them of inaction and confirmed that a criminal case has been opened, which will also review their previous service record. Zelensky expressed grief over the loss of lives, especially during an ongoing war with Russia. He emphasized that such tragedies in everyday settings make the losses even more painful for the nation.

Investigators identified the shooter as a 58-year-old man originally from Moscow who had been living in Kyiv’s Holosiivskyi district. He had previously resided in the Donetsk region, an area affected by conflict and partial Russian control. Officials confirmed that the weapon used in the attack was legally registered. They are now investigating how the suspect obtained and renewed his firearm licence. Details about the victims have also begun to emerge, including a family affected by the attack.

Authorities stated that such shootings are rare in Kyiv, despite frequent attacks linked to the ongoing war. Officials confirmed that they would not conduct a widespread review of gun ownership following the incident. Klymenko defended citizens’ right to armed self-defence, especially given the wartime context. Ukrainian law allows civilians to own non-automatic firearms under strict conditions. Reports suggest that only a small percentage of the population owns guns, highlighting the unusual nature of this tragic event.

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