While carrying out a combat mission in the Kharkiv region, Ivan Katsyuk—a native of Ternopil, an officer of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, commander of the unmanned systems company of the 105th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade, a warrior, an athlete, and an entrepreneur—was killed in action. He was only 37.
Ivan was born and raised in Ternopil. He studied at Secondary School No. 4 and later earned his higher education at Ternopil National Economic University, graduating from the Faculty of Banking Business. Educated, disciplined, and ambitious, he belonged to that rare kind of people who were accustomed to relying first and foremost on themselves. After completing his studies, Ivan launched his own business, built his future, worked tirelessly, grew professionally, and pursued his goals with clarity and determination.
Ivan was also widely known as a passionate rowing athlete. He could often be seen on Ternopil Lake—in his boat, on the water, always in motion. He proudly represented his native Ternopil region at competitions of various levels, defending its sporting honor. He was known as a strong, technically skilled, and resilient athlete—a man who never sought the easiest course.
Ivan Katsyuk joined the ranks of Ukraine’s defenders after the beginning of the full-scale invasion in 2022. He voluntarily enlisted in the Armed Forces of Ukraine and began his service with the 105th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade. Together with a combined battalion, he headed east—to where the country needed people of unbreakable character the most.
Later, he continued his service in the intelligence unit of his brigade, where he took command of an unmanned systems company. It was a role that demanded a cool head, lightning-fast reflexes, strategic thinking, and responsibility for the lives of others. His brothers-in-arms recall that Ivan took on missions of any complexity, never retreated in the face of danger, and always remained someone others could rely on.
For his kindness, openness, and brotherly attitude toward others, he earned the call sign “Bratello.” And that name spoke of him no less than his officer’s rank. One of his comrades, officer of the 105th Brigade Roman Yarysh, recalls: “I always knew I could count on Ivan’s help in any situation…”
On February 5, 2026, while carrying out a combat mission in the Kharkiv region, Ivan Katsyuk was killed in action. For several weeks, he was listed as missing in action, until official confirmation of the tragic news finally arrived.
In mid-April, Ternopil bowed its head in mourning. Family members, friends, brothers-in-arms, university lecturers, representatives of the sporting community, and ordinary residents came to bid farewell to the Hero. The warrior was laid to rest at the Pantheon of Heroes at Mykulynetske Cemetery in Ternopil.
Eternal memory to the Defender of Ukraine.