Ukrainian Soldier Andrii Poplavskyi Killed in Battle Near Pokrovsk
Ukrainian soldier Andrii Poplavskyi, 42, was killed during a Russian artillery strike near Pokrovsk while serving in the 47th Mechanized Brigade. He is remembered as a kind, courageous man who joined the war voluntarily and was laid to rest in his hometown.
Yerel Gündem 
Ukrainian Soldier Andrii Poplavskyi Killed in Battle Near Pokrovsk
Remembered as a Devoted Partner, Son, and Patriot Who Fought from Day One
YEREL GÜNDEM / UKRAINE
Ukrainian soldier Andrii Poplavskyi, known by his call sign “Poplavok,” was killed in combat on May 7, 2024, during a fierce artillery strike by Russian forces near Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. He was 42 years old. His death marked the end of a life dedicated to protecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and freedom, a mission he undertook voluntarily from the first days of the full-scale Russian invasion.
Andrii was a native of Pervomaisk in the Mykolaiv region. He graduated from the Kharkiv Mechanical Engineering Vocational College and later worked at the Kedr furniture factory. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, reading, and woodworking—activities that revealed his quiet, creative nature and deep connection to home and family.
Volunteered Immediately to Join the Fight
As the invasion began, Andrii did not hesitate. He joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a volunteer and was assigned to the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade “Magura,” where he served as a grenadier. Those who knew him say his decision was a natural reflection of his sense of duty and patriotism.
His life partner, Alina Chystova, described him as a man of integrity and depth: “Andrii was a wonderful person—kind, hardworking, a loving family man, attentive and caring. He was not only a good husband, son, brother, and friend, but a man with a capital M. Brave, selfless, and full of compassion.”
Laid to Rest in His Hometown’s Alley of Glory
Following his death in combat, Andrii was buried with military honors in the Alley of Glory in his hometown of Pervomaisk. Mourned deeply by his parents, sister, and beloved partner, his passing left a profound mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Andrii’s story reflects the experience of thousands of Ukrainian citizens who transitioned from peaceful civilian lives to become defenders of their homeland. His legacy, marked by selflessness and love, remains a powerful reminder of the human cost of the war—and the unwavering spirit of Ukraine’s defenders.
