27-year-old soldier Mykyta Makarenko, call sign “Ivar,” was killed on May 8, 2022, while defending his hometown of Mariupol. His life was cut short by a Russian airstrike on the Azovstal steel plant.
Mykyta was born and raised in Mariupol. He graduated from the National University of the State Tax Service of Ukraine. He was passionate about IT technologies and Ukrainian history. In his youth, he practiced ballroom dancing, took part in Sunday school performances, and for several years played the role of St. Nicholas. He was also interested in business and ran his own enterprise.
After graduating from university in 2018, he decided to join the military and enlisted in the Azov Special Purpose Detachment of the National Guard of Ukraine, serving as a rifleman. From February 24, 2022, he bravely defended his city against the invaders.
“Mykyta was like the sun that warmed everything around him — kind, compassionate, responsible, and courageous. He loved Ukraine, knew its history, and gave his life for his homeland in his native Mariupol,”— said his mother, Olena.
Posthumously, the Azov fighter was awarded the Order ‘For Courage,’ 3rd Class.
He is survived by his wife and mother.
9:00 — Nationwide moment of silence.
The Donetsk Regional Military Administration and the Heroes Memorial platform honor the fallen defenders from Donetsk region.