Mykhailo L. Safronov

Serviceman Mykhailo Safronov was killed on January 23, 2023 in a battle with Russian invaders near Bakhmut in the Donetsk region. The defender was 27 years old. Mykhailo was born and lived in Kramatorsk, Donetsk region. He studied at the local school No. 16. In 2018, he graduated from the master's program of the Donbas State Machine-Building Academy. He was a professional chess player, a candidate for the title of sports master. He trained children. He was an activist, loved sports and travel. He was passionate about football, cycling, and running. In his hometown, he organized charity runs and events. During the full-scale war, the man joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He was wounded in the Bakhmut direction. After a long rehabilitation, in January 2023, he returned to his comrades-in-arms near Bakhmut. This time for the last time. "He stood defending his native Donetsk region to the end, even after the first wound to his heart, he did not give up and returned to defend the Motherland. A strong-willed person. Misha, you will forever remain our Hero of Ukraine. Eternal memory, friend..." - wrote the organization "Running Kramatorsk". "Our teammate from Team Ukraine, candidate for the title of sports master Mykhailo Safronov, was killed in the liberation war. He worked as a children's coach, promoted a healthy lifestyle, actively played for our team in international matches and tournaments. Eternal memory to the Hero!" - wrote Oleksandr Matlak. The defender was buried in the village of Ivanivka in the Donetsk region.