Ruslan V. Kyrychenko (Kuba)

Sergeant Ruslan Kirichenko (call sign Cuba) was killed on January 3, 2024 near the village of Veselie in the Donetsk region. The defender came under enemy artillery fire and received fatal shrapnel wounds. The soldier was 26 years old. Ruslan was born in the Sumy region. He graduated from the Konotop Industrial and Pedagogical Professional College of Sumy State University with a degree in "Construction and operation of buildings and structures". He read a lot and was passionate about history and law. He worked in the Camellia flower shop network in Kyiv. In October 2022, the man was drafted into military service. Together with his comrades-in-arms, Ruslan defended Ukraine in the Bakhmut and Lyman directions. In early 2023, he received shrapnel wounds, but after treatment he returned to the front line again. He held the position of senior sergeant of the security group. During his service, Ruslan was awarded the "Best Sergeant of the Military Unit A4219", and also had a commendation for the conscientious performance of his duties. "My brother was a patriot of his country. He was not afraid to give his life for us. He aspired to change the history of our country for the better. He will forever remain a worthy son and a caring brother," wrote the deceased warrior's cousin Albina Bozhko. Ruslan was buried on the Alley of Glory in Konotop. The defender is survived by his wife, parents and older sister.