Defected Ukrainian General Killed in Combat in Ukraine

Major General Volodymyr Liapkin, a former head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU), was killed in action on March 17, 2026, while fighting for Russian forces. Liapkin, who fled to Russia after the 2014 Revolution of Dignity, served in the Bars-33 unit and was involved in the Russian-installed 'State Security Service' in occupied Kherson. His death was confirmed by independent Russian media outlet Mediazona and follows reports from pro-Kremlin figures. Liapkin was previously charged in absentia by the SSU for collaboration with Russian forces, including involvement in repressive measures against civilians. Alongside him, Colonel Eduard Malov, a former emergency services officer, was also killed. Liapkin's military rank in the Russian military remains unverified despite claims of his status as a general. The incident highlights ongoing combat dynamics in the region amidst the ongoing conflict.

Key Points: • Former SSU General Volodymyr Liapkin was killed while fighting for Russia in Ukraine. • Liapkin had previously been charged with collaboration against Ukrainian civilians. • His death underscores the continuing impact of the conflict on former Ukrainian officials.