Combat Medic Who Held Mariupol Dies in Olenivka Prison Attack

Bohdan Hryshkevych: A Hero of Ukraine

According to Міністерство Здоров'я: Bohdan Hryshkevych, a combat medic from Brovary, left a lasting mark on Ukraine’s history through his steadfast defense of Mariupol during the war. Born on July 6, 1993, he spent his early years in the Chernihiv region, studied in Nizhyn, and later moved with his family to Chernihiv. He trained as a paramedic at Nizhyn Medical College and worked at the city hospital there. In addition to his medical career, he practiced shooting and achieved the rank of candidate for master of sport in judo.

Service and Bravery

In 2014, he joined the Azov regiment, which later became part of Ukraine’s National Guard. Serving as a combat medic, he took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) in eastern Ukraine. He left the service in 2018, but returned to the unit two years later. When the full-scale invasion began, Bohdan helped defend Mariupol, working as a medic at a first-aid station where he treated the wounded and arranged their evacuation.

On May 17, 2022, shortly before the withdrawal from Azovstal, he was captured by Russian forces. His family managed to speak with him afterwards, and he voiced hope for an exchange: “I’m okay, I’m hoping to be swapped.” He was later transferred to a penal colony in Olenivka. In the night of July 28–29, 2022, an attack on that facility killed at least 53 prisoners and wounded over 130. Bohdan sustained injuries incompatible with life and died at the age of 29. The Olenivka attack, which took place in a Russian-controlled prison in occupied Donetsk Oblast, has been condemned internationally as a possible war crime.

His wife said: “His actions and his life left an imprint not only on the history of Ukraine, but also on the lives of many people.” August 29 is commemorated as the Day of Remembrance for defenders who died fighting for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Eternal and bright memory to Bohdan Hryshkevych and to all the men and women who lost their lives protecting Ukraine. Eternal memory to all Ukrainians whose lives Russia has taken.

Bohdan Hryshkevych’s death is yet another painful reminder of the human toll of the war in Ukraine. His dedication and courage during the defense of Mariupol will remain in the memory of his family and the entire Ukrainian people. By honoring heroes like him, Ukrainians continue their fight for independence and territorial integrity, highlighting the importance of every contribution to that struggle.