Appeal from a Fallen Soldier's Widow
The widow of Senior Sergeant Roman Kutsenko has appealed directly to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, requesting that her late husband be posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine. This formal petition was initiated following the soldier's tragic death on July 19, 2025, after he succumbed to combat wounds in a military hospital.
The Life and Service of Roman Kutsenko
Born on February 3, 1985, in the village of Ivangorod, Kirovohrad Oblast, Roman Kutsenko joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine on February 13, 2015. He signed a contract with the Special Operations Forces in 2016, where he distinguished himself as a highly skilled serviceman. For his bravery and professionalism, he was awarded the 'For Courage' medal, both third and second class, in 2022.
After being wounded in 2023, Kutsenko returned to active duty following his recovery. In 2024, he transferred to an aviation squadron, serving as a gunner. Official records state that during his service, he was responsible for destroying more than ten Russian aerial assets, a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication.
Kutsenko's fatal injury was a shrapnel wound that caused him to lose over 3.5 liters of blood. He was laid to rest in the Alley of Glory at the Far Eastern Cemetery in Kropyvnytskyi. On September 30, 2025, he was posthumously awarded the first-class 'For Courage' order. His wife, Yuliia Kutsenko, emphasized that her husband was always driven to protect his family and country, and that his actions saved many lives.
The petition for the Hero of Ukraine title requires 25,000 signatures to be formally considered. Yuliia Kutsenko, who is survived by their son and Roman's mother, has called for public support for this initiative to honor her husband's ultimate sacrifice. The process for awarding Ukraine's highest state honor is rigorous and reflects the nation's deep respect for its defenders.
This case is part of a broader national effort to recognize and memorialize the heroism of servicemen and women who have given their lives since Russia's full-scale invasion. Granting the Hero of Ukraine title would serve as a powerful symbol of support for the grieving family and a solemn reminder to society of the immense price paid by the military for the nation's security. Such petitions also help raise awareness of the ongoing challenges faced by the families of fallen soldiers.