Master Sergeant Ostap Babii Killed in Donetsk Region: A Record of 164 Enemy Eliminations and 3,500 Drone Sorties

Honoring the Heroism of Ostap Babii

According to Главком: Master Sergeant Ostap Babii, call sign 'Stich,' of the 68th Oleksa Dovbush Separate Jaeger Brigade, was killed in action on February 5, 2026, in the Pokrovsk sector of Donetsk Oblast. He sustained fatal wounds from mortar fire while carrying out a combat mission.

Born in Lviv on May 21, 1995, Ostap Babii attended Lviv Secondary School No. 1. He furthered his education at the Lviv State Vocational School of Information and Computer Technologies and the private IT Step Computer Academy in Lviv. Before joining the military, he worked in woodworking and telecommunications for private companies and was an active member of the Plast scouting organization.

Military Service and Achievements

Ostap Babii enlisted in the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 2023, rising from soldier to master sergeant in charge of a strike unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platoon. His service in this critical role highlights the technological evolution of modern warfare. During his service, he completed approximately 3,500 combat drone sorties, directly eliminating 164 enemy combatants and wounding 170 others. For his exceptional service, he was decorated with:

• The Presidential Award 'For the Defense of Ukraine'
• The Brigade Commander's 'Jaeger Warrior Cross' First Class

Ostap Babii is survived by his parents, two sisters, and his immediate family. He was laid to rest on February 14, 2026, in the Field of Honor No. 87 at Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv (Pasicna Street). His death is a profound loss to his family, fellow soldiers, and the wider community.

The death of Ostap Babii serves as another somber reminder of the heavy price Ukraine continues to pay in its war for sovereignty in the east.

His service and contribution to the fight for independence stand as a powerful example of courage and dedication. The memory of heroes like Ostap will be preserved in the hearts of his loved ones and all who learn of his deeds. The loss of such skilled and committed servicemen underscores the vital importance of societal support and recognition for their sacrifices.