The Sokal region has once again received painful news about the loss of its defenders. The community is mourning the deaths of two servicemen — Ivan Yuzvyak from the village of Spasiv and Pavlo Kostyuk from Sokal — who gave their strength and lives for Ukraine.
Ivan Yuzvyak joined the Heavenly Legion
Ivan Yevhenovych Yuzvyak, born on September 12, 1971, was a resident of Spasiv village. In 2021, he volunteered for service in the Anti-Terrorist Operation zone, and after the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, he immediately stood up to defend Ukraine.
He served as a senior soldier-gunner in the 2nd Jaeger Squad, 3rd Jaeger Platoon, 4th Jaeger Company, 2nd Jaeger Battalion of military unit A4056.
It is known that:
- from February 2022 to April 10, 2024, he participated in operations necessary for Ukraine’s defense;
- he carried out combat-related tasks aimed at protecting civilians and the national interest;
- on April 10, 2024, he took part in combat near Semenivka in Pokrovsk district, Donetsk region;
- after that engagement, he did not return to his unit’s location;
- for a long period, he was considered missing in action;
- later, DNA testing confirmed his death.
For his service and dedication, Ivan Yuzvyak was awarded a commendation from the 68th Separate Jaeger Brigade, as well as an Honorary Certificate for his significant contribution to defending the homeland. On September 9, 2025, he was posthumously awarded the 1st Class Jaeger Warrior Cross.
The community expressed sincere condolences to his mother Bohdanna, his son Yevhen, his brothers, their families, relatives, friends, and all who knew the fallen defender. Information about the meeting of the Hero and the funeral ceremony will be announced later.
Sokal to bid farewell to Pavlo Kostyuk
Another painful loss for the community was the death of Pavlo Yevhenovych Kostyuk, born on April 19, 1968, a resident of the city of Sokal.
Pavlo Kostyuk studied at Sokal Secondary School No. 2 and later at the Lviv Sports Boarding School. He graduated from Lutsk Pedagogical Institute with a degree in physical education. Throughout his life, he actively participated in the sports and cultural life of the Sokal area. He was also a member of the Khimik football team from Sokal, which won the Lviv region cup with his participation.
In May 2024, he was called up to serve in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He served in military unit A-3435. While carrying out a combat mission in the Kursk direction, he was wounded and then sent for treatment and rehabilitation. Unfortunately, due to his health condition, he was unable to return to service.
Pavlo Kostyuk passed away on April 1, 2026.
The memorial service and funeral will take place on April 3, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul.
The Sokal region bows its head in memory of its defenders. Their contribution to Ukraine’s struggle for independence will remain forever in the history of the community and in people’s hearts.