Ukrainian Soldier Oleksii Kolesnyk Killed in Russian Missile Strike in Kharkiv Region
Ukrainian soldier Oleksii Kolesnyk was killed during a Russian missile strike in the Kharkiv region. Remembered as a kind-hearted and brave defender, he was honored for his exemplary service and buried in Odesa’s Serhiivka village.
Yerel Gündem 
Ukrainian Soldier Oleksii Kolesnyk Killed in Russian Missile Strike in Kharkiv Region
Remembered as a Brave Patriot and a Man with a Big Heart
YEREL GÜNDEM / UKRAINE
Ukrainian soldier Oleksii Kolesnyk, known by his call sign "Stalker Volia," was killed on April 6, 2024, during a Russian missile strike while performing a combat mission in the Kharkiv region. He was just 36 years old. His death marks yet another tragic loss in Ukraine’s ongoing fight for independence and sovereignty against Russian aggression.
Born in the city of Bolhrad in the Odesa region, Oleksii attended local School-Lyceum No. 4 before continuing his studies at the Izmail Vocational College. In civilian life, he was a road construction specialist, focusing on the building, repair, and maintenance of streets and highways. Friends recall his deep love for animals, especially dogs—no matter where he was, a four-legged companion was always nearby.
From the First Day of the Invasion, He Was on the Frontlines
Oleksii joined the defense effort from the earliest days of Russia’s full-scale invasion and served valiantly in the 40th Separate Artillery Brigade named after Grand Prince Vytautas. He earned the honorary distinction “For Exemplary Service” during his military duty and was widely regarded as a courageous and disciplined defender of Ukraine.
Friends and comrades describe Oleksii as an exceptional human being—positive, kind, always ready to help in difficult times, and someone who deeply listened to others. “Oleksii wasn’t just a friend—he was a person with a truly big heart,” wrote childhood friends Hanna Terzi and Alina Slobodyanyuk. “He was brave, empathetic, and the soul of every gathering. We are grateful to have had him in our lives. Now he will live forever in our hearts as a true hero who gave his life for a free and independent Ukraine.”
Buried in His Hometown, Mourned by Loved Ones
Oleksii was laid to rest in the village of Serhiivka, Odesa region, where family, friends, and fellow soldiers gathered to pay their last respects. His passing leaves behind a void felt not only by his loved ones but by a nation that continues to rely on the selfless service of heroes like him.
At the time of his death, Oleksii was eagerly looking ahead to a brighter future—he dreamed of owning a sports car, had ambitious plans, and a heart full of hope. Now, his legacy serves as a symbol of resilience and sacrifice in Ukraine’s ongoing quest for freedom.
