Soldier Viacheslav Makarets, callsign “Timur,” was killed on April 19, 2022, at the combat position known as “Shlakova Hora” at the Azovstal Metallurgical Plant in Mariupol. He was 48 years old.
Viacheslav was born on January 29, 1974, in Donetsk. In 1997, he married his beloved Gulnara. That same year, he became an instructor at the Department of Physical and Tactical-Special Training for cadets at Donetsk State University of Internal Affairs.
“Our life together held so much goodness, so many happy moments that they are impossible to count. School (we studied together from first grade), our wedding, the birth of our son, our first car, home renovations, sports, gardening, the sea, the horse stable, everyday life, holidays, travels,” his wife Gulnara recalled.
In August 2014, remaining faithful to his oath, he relocated to Mariupol by order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs leadership. There, he served within the Main Directorate of the National Police.
Viacheslav regularly and enthusiastically engaged in sports. He held the title of Master of Sports in powerlifting and was a Candidate for Master of Sports in polyathlon (running, swimming, shooting, pull-ups). He constantly involved his students and cadets in training and took part in competitions.
In May 2021, Viacheslav retired with the rank of police lieutenant colonel and joined the Azov Regiment. He could not stay on the sidelines amid the escalation at the front. He considered this unit one of the best and deeply regretted not joining Azov earlier. He enlisted as a soldier and served as a rifleman in the 2nd squad of the commandant company.
“He was a kind, honest, fair, and brave person, which earned him the respect of colleagues, brothers-in-arms, and students. The family fully supported Viacheslav. We all left Donetsk together without hesitation, because we shared—and still share—his worldview and patriotism. He was a good father to his son, the best husband to his wife, a devoted son to his parents, and a true officer. He was fond of phaleristics and numismatics; sadly, his collection remained in Mariupol,” his wife said.
The warrior was posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage,” 3rd Class.
As of January 2026, the defender has not yet been laid to rest.
Viacheslav is survived by his wife, son, mother, and sister.
At 9:00 a.m. — the nationwide moment of silence. The Donetsk Regional Military Administration and the Memorial of Heroes platform honor the fallen defenders from Donetsk region killed by Russia.