Azov Major Korinevych reported being beaten by previously convicted fighters of the 3rd Assault Brigade

Major of the National Guard of Ukraine and fighter of the “Azov” special unit, Andriy Korynevych (call sign “Koren” – meaning “Root”), has reported being assaulted, allegedly by members of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade.

He shared details of the incident, which took place on June 13 near his home in Ivano-Frankivsk, on his Facebook page. According to Korynevych, the attackers beat him with telescopic batons without attempting to rob him. He stated that the identities of the attackers have been established by police.

Among them is Semen Klok (call sign “Malysh” – meaning “Kid”), who, according to Korynevych, had previously been prosecuted for theft, hooliganism, and bodily harm. In 2024, he allegedly severely injured a National Guard officer, but the case was closed.

The second alleged attacker is Vasyl Bondarenko (call sign “Visia”), who previously served with Korynevych in the “Azov” unit. He reportedly had a criminal record for armed assault and had been internationally wanted. According to the major, Bondarenko was accepted into the 3rd Brigade under the personal guarantee of the brigade’s commander, Andriy Biletsky.

The third participant, according to the victim, was Maksym Belohub, who was reportedly waiting in the car during the attack. Korynevych also mentioned Serhiy Tsyhanchuk (call sign “Sova” – meaning “Owl”), who had recently invited him to a meeting and criticized the leadership of the 3rd Brigade.

Korynevych believes the attack was orchestrated by Andriy Biletsky, claiming such an operation would not happen without his knowledge: “I know Andriy Biletsky well. Such actions don’t happen without his consent,” said the major.

He added that Biletsky has political ambitions and “uses subordinates for personal gain.”

The 12th Azov Special Forces Brigade condemned the attack. The 3rd Assault Brigade has not yet commented on the incident.

Police in the Ivano-Frankivsk region confirmed the assault on the serviceman while on leave. The victim was diagnosed with chemical eye burns and abrasions. Law enforcement stated that two men, aged 24 and 25, were involved in the incident and their whereabouts have been established. However, no information about any arrests has been released.