He became the first victim in the modern Russian-Ukrainian war. Let's remember Serhiy Kokurin.

Today, March 18, marks a year since the death of Crimean Serhiy Kokurin, who was born in Simferopol. He became the first victim in the new Russian-Ukrainian war when Russia annexed Crimea. This is reported by the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory, citing 'Glavkom'.

Serhiy Kokurin, who was a warrant officer, worked as the head of the warehouse of the 13th Photogrammetric Center of the Main Directorate of Operational Support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He was killed at the observation tower of the motor park of the unit in Simferopol by a sniper shot that went directly into his heart.

On March 16, 2014, an illegitimate 'referendum' regarding the status of Crimea and Sevastopol was held, after which the Russian Federation annexed the peninsula. However, neither Ukraine nor the international community, including the European Union and the USA, recognized the results of this vote. On March 18, Vladimir Putin announced the 'joining' of Crimea to Russia.

International organizations condemned the annexation and occupation of Crimea, recognizing them as illegal. Western countries also imposed economic sanctions against the Russian Federation. Meanwhile, Russia continues to call its actions 'restoration of historical justice'. The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine designated February 20, 2014, as the official date for the beginning of the temporary occupation of Crimea and Sevastopol by Russia.

The gallery block

By the Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 599/2014 dated July 19, 2014, Serhiy Kokurin was posthumously awarded the Order of 'For Courage' III degree for his bravery, heroism, military service oath, and indomitable spirit.

'Glavkom' joins in a moment of silence, honoring the memory of all Ukrainians who died in the struggle for their homeland. We remember those who fell at the hands of Russian invaders, light candles of remembrance, and bow our heads in mourning during the nationwide moment of silence, honoring the memory of Ukrainian citizens who gave their lives for the freedom and independence of the state: all military personnel, civilians, and children, all who died in the fight against Russian occupiers and as a result of the attack by hostile troops on Ukrainian cities and villages.