A Russian national residing in Germany has been charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of two wounded Ukrainian soldiers earlier this year. According to prosecutors, the incident occurred in the Bavarian town of Murnau, where the suspect allegedly attacked the soldiers who were recuperating from surgical procedures.

The 57-year-old suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed due to privacy regulations in Germany, was apprehended shortly after the attacks took place on April 27. Prosecutors in Munich revealed that there had been a casual acquaintance between the suspect and the victims, who had met previously. On the day of the incident, the three men were drinking together, but a dispute arose over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The suspect reportedly felt that his “national pride was hurt” during the argument.

In response to the altercation, the accused allegedly made the decision to stab the two intoxicated Ukrainians in a sudden assault. He went to his nearby apartment to retrieve a knife for the attack. Tragically, one soldier succumbed to his injuries almost instantly, while the other passed away later as a result of his wounds.

Prosecutors also indicated that the suspect harbors strong nationalist sentiments, asserting his support for Russia’s aggressive actions against Ukraine. The victims had traveled to Germany for medical treatment following injuries sustained in the conflict and were under recovery after surgeries performed at a local hospital in Murnau. Due to their injuries, both soldiers were reportedly “physically limited.”

As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, Germany has emerged as a significant ally for Ukraine, becoming the second-largest supplier of military aid after the United States since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.

The case now awaits examination by a state court in Munich to determine if and when it will progress to trial.