President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has posthumously awarded the prestigious Hero of Ukraine title to two distinguished warriors, Junior Sergeant Vitalii Karvatskyi and Soldier Oleh Yarovyi. The honors, accompanied by the Orders of the Golden Star, recognize their exceptional bravery and significant contributions in the ongoing conflict against Russian aggression.

Vitalii Karvatskyi, who voluntarily joined the Territorial Defense Forces, played a crucial role in numerous combat missions from 2022 to 2023. Known for his exemplary service in the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade, Karvatskyi was instrumental in key battles at Avdiivka and Pokrovsk. His skill as an FPV attack drone operator led to the elimination of over 600 enemy soldiers and several armored vehicles, significantly impeding enemy advances. Sadly, he was killed in action by a Russian drone strike in June 2025.

Oleh Yarovyi, a combat engineer with the “Da Vinci Wolves,” demonstrated extraordinary resilience and strategic acumen. Despite being wounded during combat in Selydove, Yarovyi refused evacuation, instead fortifying positions and rallying troops to withstand enemy assaults. His later self-taught drone operations played a vital role in rescuing the wounded and adjusting artillery fire, saving countless lives. Yarovyi’s bravery was further exemplified in his final stand in July 2025, where he was killed while defending his position.

These posthumous honors underscore the valor and sacrifice of Ukrainian soldiers in their relentless defense of their nation amid ongoing conflict.