A warrior, an athlete, a hero. Mykhailo Zhluktenko was killed on 7 August 2025 in combat near the village of Stepne in the Sumy region.
Call sign “Michael.” A machine gunner in the reconnaissance company of the 78th Separate Air Assault Brigade. His brothers-in-arms remember him simply: dependable. Someone who would not fail in the hardest moments. In the military, he remained who he had always been—calm, composed, sparing of words. He did not seek recognition. He did his duty.
Mykhailo was born on 30 March 1991 in Kyiv. At the age of six, he took up fencing—and it became part of his life. He studied at the Ivan Piddubny Olympic College, where he developed both as an athlete and as a person.
Sabre fencing was his calling. A Master of Sports of Ukraine, a prize-winner of national and all-Ukrainian competitions and Ukrainian championships. He was distinguished by his calm character, inner composure, and perseverance.
After finishing his sports career, he worked as an electrical installer. Attentive to detail, responsible, and honest. For his loved ones—someone to rely on. For his friends—a person they could always count on.
In August 2024, he joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
In February 2026, a memorial evening titled “Angels of Sport” was held at his alma mater. His photograph stands among those commemorating fallen graduates.
We bow our heads. Rest in peace, Hero.