Ukraine mourns the loss of another defender – Drohobych native Vitalii Chernikov, who volunteered to defend his homeland during the full-scale invasion.
Vitalii Chernikov was born on March 15, 1989, in Drohobych. He attended School No. 4 and later graduated from the Mechanical and Technological Vocational College. He worked at the “Leoni” factory near Stryi.
Due to health reasons, Vitalii was exempted from military service and not subject to conscription. Nevertheless, at the onset of the full-scale war, he volunteered to join Ukraine’s defenders.
Since 2024, Vitalii served on the frontlines as a grenadier in the 3rd Assault Specialized Unit, 2nd Assault Platoon of the “Shkval” Assault Company, Unit A4945.
On January 9, 2025, he was killed in action while performing a combat mission near Pokrovsk, Volnovakha District, Donetsk Region.
Vitalii is survived by his mother, two brothers, and an aunt.
The Drohobych City Council, its executive committee, the council’s deputies, Mayor Taras Kuchma, and Council Secretary Orest Karakevych extend their deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the fallen defender.
We mourn together with the Hero’s family and offer our support in this time of grief. The time of the funeral procession’s arrival will be announced later.