At the onset of the Ukrainian-Russian war, long before the full-scale invasion, Ukrainian soldier, athlete, and true patriot Andriy Lytvynenko fell in battle in Donetsk region.
Born in Dnipro, Andriy lived with his family in Novomoskovsk. His life was defined by strength and the relentless pursuit of victory. A talented athlete, he trained in powerlifting at the “Bypass” club in Samara from 2005 to 2010. Through perseverance and dedication, he became a prizewinner of the Ukrainian Championship and earned the title of Candidate for Master of Sports.
When Russia launched its armed aggression, Andriy volunteered to defend Ukraine. On March 26, 2014, he was mobilized into the 25th Separate Airborne Brigade, serving as a medical instructor in the brigade’s medical platoon. He was given the call sign “Kozak” for his unbreakable spirit and signature Cossack-style topknot. A true hero, he risked his life to save his comrades in the most harrowing conditions, always ready to lend a hand.
On June 19, 2014, Andriy Lytvynenko was killed near the village of Yampil, Donetsk region. At dawn, a joint assault unit of paratroopers set out on a mission with artillery support. Medical personnel moved from Krasnyi Lyman closer to the combat zone, while Andriy, as a medic, traveled directly with the armored convoy of paratroopers. The convoy was ambushed, and one of the vehicles was destroyed. Amid heavy fire, Andriy rushed to aid the wounded. A sniper’s bullet struck him in the back, piercing between the plates of his body armor and hitting him directly in the heart.
His heroism has been honored at the national level. On July 15, 2014, Andriy Lytvynenko was posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage” III Class. In Novomoskovsk, a memorial plaque was placed on his home, and a street was named in his honor. In 2020, he was posthumously granted the title of “Honorary Citizen of Novomoskovsk.”
Andriy left behind a legacy of courage, cherished by his family, friends, and fellow soldiers. A devoted son, husband, and father, he is survived by his parents, his wife Tetiana, and their two daughters, Zoryana and Myroslava.
The bright memory of Andriy Lytvynenko will forever live in our hearts. He was a true warrior and a champion—in sports, in war, and in life.