Five Russian Commanders Identified by Ukraine’s SBU for Lethal Cafe Strike in Hroza

Investigation into the Missile Attack on a Cafe in Hroza Village

According to Главком: The full chain of command behind the missile strike on a cafe in the village of Hroza, Kharkiv region, has been uncovered by investigators. The attack, which took place on October 5, 2023, claimed the lives of 59 civilians, including an 8-year-old child. In connection with this incident, five Russian military personnel have been identified as suspects and formally notified of their charges.

The strike was carried out using an Iskander-M ballistic missile. Evidence shows that the target coordinates were relayed by two local residents who later fled to Russia. Over 180 forensic examinations have been conducted to document the crime. The intelligence chief who coordinated the operation is Rear Admiral Oleksiy Petrushyn, while Vice Admiral Serhiy Pinchuk served as deputy commander. Colonel General Oleksiy Kim acted as chief of staff, and Colonel Dmytro Kozlovsky was deputy head of missile forces. The commander of the 119th Missile Brigade is Colonel Ivan Petrov. All five officers have been served with suspicion notices.

Ongoing Investigation and Official Comments

Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) identified the spotter collaborators involved in the crime back in October 2023. They were later revealed to be two brothers who collaborated with the enemy. Additionally, it has been reported that one of the implicated Russian commanders died in early 2025 from an explosion in Russia.

Ruslan Kravchenko, an SBU representative, commented on the matter, stating: 'For the Russian army, such crimes are just part of war. For us, they are specific criminal cases, specific names, and specific accountability.'

The investigation is ongoing, aiming to ensure accountability for this crime against civilians.

This incident is part of a broader pattern of war crimes occurring in Ukraine amid the ongoing armed conflict. Establishing responsibility for such actions is crucial not only for justice but also to deter similar atrocities in the future. Continued investigative efforts and documentation by Ukrainian law enforcement highlight their commitment to upholding human rights and delivering justice.