12 January was an ordinary day for one of the Kyiv schools. However, at the start of a lesson, a 15-year-old ninth-grade student suddenly attacked his class teacher and a classmate, causing serious injuries, before inflicting self-harm. Authorities indicate the teenager was apparently in contact with Russian intelligence, InformNapalm reports.
"During an inspection of his phone, correspondence was found with unknown individuals, likely representatives of Russian intelligence, where the minor discussed his plans to commit a crime," the Prosecutor’s Office says.
The motives behind his actions are still being investigated.
He entered the classroom with a knife and in mask
According to police, the boy went to the restroom, put on a prepared mask and helmet, and then entered the classroom with a knife. He first attacked a 39-year-old teacher and then a 14-year-old classmate.
"Preliminary reports indicate the minor suffered multiple cuts to his back and forearms, while the teacher sustained stab and slash wounds to her arms and abdomen. Both were hospitalized," authorities say.
After the attack, the student locked himself in the restroom and inflicted additional injuries on his arm and abdomen. He is currently in the hospital under medical supervision, while the teacher remains in serious condition.
T-shirt with the inscription "Hitler Kaput"
Investigators believe the boy may have been influenced by outside parties, possibly representatives of Russian intelligence. Examination of his mobile device revealed correspondence with unknown individuals discussing his plans to commit the crime.
Additional evidence of ideological influence includes selfies of the student wearing a mask and helmet, and a T-shirt with the inscription “Hitler Kaput”, echoing Russian propaganda narratives about "Nazism in Ukraine."
The image of the boy wearing the T-shirt had appeared on social media a day before the attack.
The teenager may face 10–15 years in prison
The case has been opened under Part 2 of Article 15 and Part 2, Clause 1 of Article 115 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (attempted murder of two or more persons). If found guilty, the teenager could face 10–15 years in prison, which is two-thirds of the sentence for completed murder under Ukrainian law.
Authorities continue to investigate the possible influence of Russian intelligence on the minor.
