Russian missile hits Ukrainian training site, killing 3 servicemen and injuring 18

Three servicemen have died after a Russian missile strike hit a Ukrainian training site, injuring 18 others on Tuesday in the latest, in a series of similar attacks on training facilities, according to Ukraine's Ground Forces, prompting new security steps.

Officials say the incident highlights growing worries about the vulnerability of rear-area locations and is one of several recent attacks on training facilities.

"Today, July 29, the enemy launched a missile strike on the territory of one of the training units of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," the Ground Forces said in a statement on Telegram.

"Despite the security measures taken, unfortunately it was not possible to completely avoid losses among the personnel. As of 21:30, it is known that there are three dead and 18 wounded servicemen," the statement said.

The Russian defence ministry confirmed on Wednesday that its units carried out Iskander missile strikes on a training camp of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Ukraine's Chernihiv region, Russian agencies reported.

Reuters could not independently verify the Ukrainian and Russian reports.

Ukraine's report gave no indication where the attack had taken place. But military bloggers suggested it had occurred near the country's northern border in Chernihiv region.

Authorities have said a commission for investigation has been initiated, and cautioned that any carelessness leading to the fatalities will result in disciplinary measures. The Ground Forces also stated that they are implementing tighter security measures to safeguard staff at training locations.

The strike comes after two lethal assaults on training facilities in June, one of which occurred in central Ukraine, resulting in 12 fatalities and causing the ground forces commander to resign.

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