Mykola V. Zaitsev (Pushystyi)

Sergeant Mykola Zaitsev (call sign Pushisty) was killed in action on July 3, 2022, while performing a combat mission near the village of Maiaky in Donetsk region. On July 20, the defender would have turned 29 years old. Mykola was born in the village of Butivka, Odesa region. He graduated from the Odesa Military Naval Lyceum. He was interested in technology. In 2014-2016, as part of the 79th separate airmobile assault brigade, he participated in the ATO. He fought in Donetsk region, participated in battles for Debaltseve and Donetsk airport. In 2015, he was awarded the Order of Courage III degree. Later, he returned home and to civilian life. From the first days of the full-scale invasion, the man again stood up to defend Ukraine from the occupiers in the ranks of his native 79th separate airmobile assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He held the position of mechanic-driver of the SAU. Together with his comrades, Mykola defended Mykolaiv region and Donetsk region. "For me, brother is the dearest person. Time has passed, and I still don't believe that he is no longer there. We buried my brother on my birthday - July 7, and he so wanted to congratulate me. I remember our last conversation: "Sister, I'll make you a surprise on your birthday". I then thought that he would come home, but, unfortunately, he came in a coffin. Although he was my younger brother, he was a reliable support, support, my wings. For my sons, he was like a father. Brother invested all his love and care in his nephews. Because he didn't have time to create his own family, to have children. Until his last breath, he remained faithful to his comrades, his land, and his people," said the deceased warrior's sister Natalia. The paratrooper was buried in his native village. Mykola is survived by his parents, sister, two nephews, other relatives, friends, and comrades.