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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

No, two French soldiers have not been killed in a Russian attack in Ukraine

No, two French soldiers have not been killed in a Russian attack in Ukraine

Summary

Two French soldiers, Sergeant Bin Chen and Corporal Axel Delplanque, died during a training accident in Angers, France, not from a Russian attack in Ukraine. Official French authorities confirmed their deaths and said France has no troops deployed in Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • Claims on pro-Russian social media said the soldiers vanished during a Russian strike in Odesa, Ukraine.
  • The two soldiers died during a combat engineer diving training on May 5, 2026, in Angers, western France.
  • Only Sergeant Bin Chen was part of the French Foreign Legion; Corporal Axel Delplanque served mostly with the 13th Battalion of Chasseurs Alpins.
  • The French public prosecutor in Rennes has opened an investigation into the accident.
  • France officially stated it has no military forces currently in Ukraine.
  • Five French service members have died in duty-related incidents in 2026 so far.
  • Previous deaths included two soldiers in an operational mission in Lebanon in late April.
  • Tributes were paid to the fallen soldiers by French military leaders and in the National Assembly.
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