The Death of Denis Popovich
On May 23, 2026, Colonel Denis Popovich of the Security Service of Ukraine's Special Operations Center 'A' lost his life in the Donetsk region. At 42 years old, he died while carrying out a combat mission near Zolote Kolodyaz. In recognition of his bravery and dedication during the fight for Ukraine, he was posthumously awarded the title Hero of Ukraine with the 'Golden Star' order on June 22, 2026.
Background and Career
Born on July 1, 1983, in Lutsk, Denis came from a family with a strong athletic heritage. His father, Mykola Popovich, was an internationally recognized master of sports in kayaking and canoeing and competed on the Ukrainian national team. Following in his footsteps, Denis trained as a swimmer from a young age and met the Ukrainian master of sports standard in swimming at the 2001 Universiade in Dnipro. After graduating from Lutsk State Technical University, he worked at the Volyn Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Denis began his military service in the special company of the separate regiment of the President of Ukraine before joining the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and becoming a member of the elite 'Alpha' special unit. Rising to the rank of colonel, he served as deputy head of the department at the Special Operations Center 'A' of the SBU in Volyn. His combat experience started with early rotations in Donetsk in April 2014 and extended through numerous frontline missions, including during the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Beyond his military duties, Popovich was deeply engaged in sports. In 2024, he earned the Ukrainian master of sports title in shooting and helped establish a shooting range in Volyn alongside comrades. As head of the 'Operator' sports shooting club, he organized training sessions for soldiers, veterans, and civilians alike.
Denis Popovich is survived by his wife and two daughters. He was laid to rest in Lutsk alongside fellow Ukrainian defenders. His personal interests included reading, photography, automobiles, programming, and music.
Denis Popovich’s sacrifice highlights the ongoing toll borne by Ukrainian servicemen amid the conflict in the country’s east.
His career in the SBU and frontline service underscore the vital role special forces play in safeguarding national security. Honoring him with the Hero of Ukraine award affirms the courage and resilience demonstrated by Ukraine’s military personnel throughout the war.