DSNS Divers Honored as 'Rescuers of the Year' for Heroic Underwater Mission at Kyiv Power Plant

DSNS Divers Receive Top Honors at Golden Glove Charity Awards

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Three divers from Ukraine's State Emergency Service (DSNS) were awarded the prestigious 'Rescuer of the Year' title at the Golden Glove charity ceremony for their critical underwater mission at a Kyiv thermal power plant (TPP) last winter. Following a Russian missile strike, the team spent six continuous days working in freezing waters amid -15°C temperatures to halt a dangerous leak from a damaged essential pipe. Their efforts prevented flooding and protected vital infrastructure responsible for heating Kyiv’s residents.

Award Recipients and Ceremony Details

The honored divers, Artem Orlov, Denys Frolov, and Mykhailo Khizhnyak, are members of the DSNS Interregional Rapid Response Center. The operation also involved Andriy Vlasenko and Anton Haitan. The award was presented by Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine. Established by Anna Butkevych, the Golden Glove charity awards include several categories, with 'Rescuer of the Year' among the most distinguished. The fifth annual ceremony took place in Kyiv on October 17, 2025.

During the event’s charity auction, over 5 million hryvnias were raised to purchase medical equipment for the Kherson Regional Children's Hospital. The DSNS emphasized that the divers' relentless commitment was crucial in stopping the leak, enabling municipal teams to complete essential repairs and secure Kyiv’s heat supply.

“Honoring these rescuers at the Golden Glove awards highlights the critical role they play during emergencies, especially amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.” – State Emergency Service of Ukraine

This underwater operation stands as a powerful example of courage and expertise, safeguarding the city’s heating system from catastrophic failure. The significant funds raised at the charity event reflect the unity and support among Ukrainians during challenging times, improving healthcare for children in war-affected regions.