September 25 declared a day of national mourning in Kazakhstan

September 25 Declared a Day of National Mourning in Kazakhstan

The President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has declared a national mourning in the country in connection with the deaths of military personnel during exercises in the Mangystau region.

According to the Akorda press service, by decree of the head of state, September 25, 2026, has been designated as a day of national mourning in the Republic of Kazakhstan due to the deaths of military personnel while performing their duty.

Today, September 24, exercises of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan were taking place in the Mangystau region. While performing a combat training mission on the coast of the Caspian Sea, 19 servicemen were swept away by the water due to a sharp deterioration in the weather and strong winds.

The Ministry of Defense initially reported that 9 servicemen had died and three people had been rescued. According to the latest data, the death toll has reached 12.

The Prosecutor General's Office announced that a criminal case has been initiated and investigative actions are underway regarding the deaths of the military personnel during the exercises at the Aktau garrison. A government commission was established following the incident. Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev visited the site of the tragedy.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his condolences in connection with the deaths of the military personnel and ordered a thorough investigation into the causes of the tragedy. Due to the tragedy, all festive events planned in the city of Aktau on the occasion of "City Day" have been canceled.