In the Drohobych community today, 12 October, at the Heroes’ Crossroads, a funeral cortege will be received bearing the body of the fallen defender of Ukraine, Senior Sergeant Mykola Kovaliv, callsign “Atom”. The cortege is expected to arrive at approximately 13:30.
Since 20 May 2025, the serviceman had been listed as missing in action. It was only on 3 October 2026 that his death was officially confirmed, so for almost 16 months his family and loved ones had been waiting for news of his fate.
Mykola Kovaliv was born on 9 December 1981 and lived in the village of Bronytsia. He studied at Bronytsia Gymnasium and later graduated from Vocational School No. 15, where he qualified as a carpenter. After completing his studies, he worked abroad for some time.
In February 2022, he joined the ranks of Ukraine’s defenders. Most recently, he served with the rank of Senior Sergeant as a rifleman-operator in the 2nd Mechanised Section of the 1st Mechanised Platoon, 3rd Mechanised Company, 63rd Separate Mechanised Brigade.
On 20 May 2025, while carrying out a combat mission near the settlement of Torske in Kramatorsk district, Donetsk region, Mykola Kovaliv went missing. According to preliminary information, this happened as a result of mortar and artillery fire and strikes by FPV drones.
For those who knew Mykola personally, he was remembered not only as a courageous soldier, but also as a kind and compassionate person who always supported his family, friends and acquaintances. He was respected for his sincerity, humanity and warmth.
The fallen defender is survived by his father, wife, sisters and nephews.
Today at 19:00 a Parastas will be held in the village of Bronytsia. The funeral service is scheduled for tomorrow, 13 October, at 13:00 in the Church of St Basil the Great in Bronytsia. Mykola Kovaliv will be laid to rest in the local cemetery in his home village.
Eternal remembrance and honour to the Defender of Ukraine.