Ukrainian Artilleryman Andrii Kitsera Killed in January 2026: From the ATO to the Battle for Klishchiivka

The Life and Service of Andrii Kitsera

According to Главком: Artilleryman Andrii Kitsera of the 80th Separate Air Assault 'Galician' Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces was killed in action on January 28, 2026. His life story and military career reflect profound dedication, patriotism, and a high degree of professional skill. Born in Lviv on June 11, 1972, Kitsera attended Lyceum No. 46, named for Viacheslav Chornovil, and later trained as a painter specializing in artistic finishes at the Lviv Professional College of Applied Arts and Design. He also studied at the Catechetical-Pedagogical Institute of the Ukrainian Catholic University.

After completing his mandatory military service, he worked as an interior finishing master for private companies. He was a veteran of the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) and, with the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, he immediately stepped forward to defend his country. His service took him to multiple critical fronts, including:

• Mykolaiv
• Kherson
• Southern Slobozhanshchyna
• Donetsk
• Kursk
• Northern Slobozhanshchyna

Explaining his decision to enlist, Andrii Kitsera wrote:

"I saw what Russia was doing and understood I could not stay at home. I sent my wife and daughter to my sister's. Once they had left, I quietly gathered my things and went to the military enlistment office. By February 28, I was already being processed."

During the intense fighting for Klishchiivka in the Donetsk region, his artillery crew was credited with destroying two Russian armored fighting vehicles in a single engagement. For his demonstrated courage and skill, he received several commendations:

• The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense award 'For Exemplary Service'
• The 'For Destroying the Enemy' award
• The 'ATO Participant' medal

In December 2025, his brigade published an interview where he noted:

"Here, the person comes first. Our commanders are not arrogant; they listen. They often ask for advice because they know I have experience. Here, you feel your knowledge and skills are valued. And that is very motivating."

Honoring a Hero

Andrii Kitsera was laid to rest on February 24, 2026, at the Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv, in Field of Honor No. 87 on Pasichna Street. He is survived by his wife, his daughter Liliana, a brother, and extended family. In another interview, he shared his personal perspective on the war:

"I was raised in a Christian family, and I believe in God. Every time we head into combat, I pray the whole way. It focuses me. I know my family is praying for me, too. That strengthens me, giving me power and confidence."

Kitsera's legacy is one of courage, self-sacrifice, and love for his homeland. His own words,

"In civilian life, I could invent, imagine, and create something new. I love to create with my hands,"

underscore a deep-seated desire to build, a stark contrast to the destruction of war. His loss is another painful reminder of the heavy toll the ongoing war with Russia continues to exact on Ukraine's defenders. The memory of heroes like Andrii Kitsera forms a crucial part of the national identity, inspiring future generations to support their country in its most challenging times.