Vitalii Zinchuk

Senior Soldier Vitalii Zinchuk (call sign Radii) was killed in a russian war crime during the night of July 28–29, 2022, while held in captivity at Olenivka Penal Colony No. 120 in the Donetsk region. He will forever be 25.

Vitalii was born and raised in the city of Dnipro. After finishing the 9th grade at School No. 34, he went on to study at Dnipro Vocational School No. 6, training as a tiler, bricklayer, and plasterer. But his heart had always belonged to the military. Fascinated by Ukrainian history and weapons, he devoted time to sports and enjoyed cycling in his free time.

In 2017, the long-held dream took shape when he signed a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Until 2021, Vitalii served with the 25th Separate Airborne Brigade and took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation. When his contract ended, he joined the Azov Special Operations Detachment under the National Guard of Ukraine. From the first day of the full-scale invasion, Radii defended Mariupol alongside his brothers-in-arms. After enduring fierce battles, the city’s defenders were eventually taken captive—some, including Vitalii, transferred to Olenivka, where russian forces later carried out a treacherous act of mass murder.

For his honorable service, the soldier was awarded the Medal “For Military Service to Ukraine” and, posthumously, the Order “For Courage,” 3rd Class.

“My brother was incredibly kind and compassionate—always ready to help,” said his sister Oleksandra. “His dedication to defending Ukraine and perfecting his military skills led him to Azov. I’m proud of my younger brother. I’ve never met another soul so bright and sincere.”

A farewell ceremony was held on June 24, 2024, at Krasnopilske Cemetery in Dnipro.

Vitalii is survived by his mother and sister.

Source: Memorial

Contributors: Sophia Yakivtsiv and Tetiana Spindel (translators), Liena Shulika (designer)