Firefighter Killed in Kyiv Region Rescue Operation Following Russian Attack

Tragedy in the Kyiv Region

According to Главком: A Ukrainian rescue worker was killed on February 7th during emergency recovery operations in the Kyiv region. The fatality occurred after a Russian attack caused a structural collapse. The fallen rescuer was 30-year-old Mykhailo Protsenko, a chief master sergeant in the civil protection service who served in the 22nd State Emergency Service Unit of the Kyiv region. He is survived by his wife and two young sons.

Another rescuer, 49-year-old Serhiy Khobotnia, the commander of a unit in the 22nd State Emergency Service Unit, was also injured and is currently under medical supervision. The incident took place in the city of Yahotyn, where emergency crews were working at a facility destroyed by Russian forces. The fire in the warehouse had initially been caused by an enemy drone attack.

Loss Among Rescue Personnel

On February 6-7, Russian forces launched a combined strike on Ukraine's critical infrastructure. According to air defense reports, 406 out of 477 targets were neutralized. On that day, State Emergency Service units were operating at seven complex sites following the bombardment. This relentless targeting of civilian infrastructure creates extremely perilous conditions for first responders.

Ihor Klymenko stated: 'Due to Russian strikes, Ukraine has lost another professional rescuer. One who fearlessly rushed into the fire to save others. This is an irreparable loss for the large family of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and for the entire country.'

Andrii Danyk added: 'Today, after another massive Russian bombardment of our country, we have again suffered painful losses among the personnel of the State Emergency Service.'

This tragedy underscores the extreme dangers rescue workers face while performing their duties, especially under active wartime conditions. It is important to note that these personnel continue to carry out their functions despite the risks posed by shelling and attacks. Losses within the State Emergency Service highlight the war's consequences not only for the military but also for civilians and the services working to ensure safety across Ukraine.