In Novoiavorivsk, Ukraine’s defender Borys Liubenko, who for a long time was considered missing in action after the fighting in Donetsk region, is returning home on his shield. The soldier was identified by DNA analysis, after which the investigative authorities declared him dead.
Liubenko Borys Bohdanovych was born on 7 February 1985 in the town of Novoiavorivsk. He studied at Novoiavorivsk School No. 3 and at the same time took vocal classes at the Novoiavorivsk Children’s School of Arts. After finishing school, he entered the Kolomyia Theological College.
Before the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, he worked as a painter for a construction company in Lviv. In October 2022, Borys voluntarily joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine to defend his Homeland. He served as a grenadier in the 5th Separate Assault Kyiv Brigade and performed the duties of group leader.
On 22 July 2023, during an assault on enemy positions in Donetsk region, Borys Liubenko went missing in action while carrying out a combat mission. In October 2026, his identity was established by DNA, after which the serviceman’s death was officially confirmed.
In mourning for the fallen soldier are his mother Olha, brothers Vasyl and Ihor, his nieces and nephews, and a large extended family.
A prayer gathering for the soldier will take place in Novoiavorivsk on Monday, 2 November, at 12:30 at 4 Ivana Franka Street, near the Ukraina shopping centre. The funeral service will begin at 13:00 in the Church of the Intercession of the Holy Mother of God (OCU). The defender will be laid to rest at the local cemetery in Novoiavorivsk.