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Vladimir Putin (in March): honor for "heroism and bravery"
Photo: Mikhail Klimentyev / dpa
Russian President Vladimir Putin has bestowed an honorary title on the brigade that accused Ukraine of "war crimes" and mass killings in the city of Bucha.
According to the Kremlin, Putin signed a decree on Monday giving the 64th Motorized Infantry Brigade the honorary title of "Guards".
The award is justified with "heroism and bravery, determination and courage" of the members.
"The skilful and resolute action of the entire personnel (the brigade) during the military special operation in Ukraine" is "an example of the execution of military duties, of courage, determination and great professionalism," Putin said.
The brigade defended the "motherland and state interests."
The Kremlin did not provide any information on where members of the brigade are currently located or where they are stationed.
No further details were given about their duties.
The Russian army and especially the 64th Brigade are accused of having carried out a massacre of civilians in the town of Bucha near Kyiv.
After the Russian troops left, many dead in civilian clothes, some with their hands tied, were found on the streets of Bucha.
The intelligence service of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense published the names, ranks and passport details of each member of the brigade and announced that they would be put on trial.
According to the Ukrainian police, most of the dead in Bucha had gunshot wounds.
xvc/AFP