In January 2023, amidst fierce fighting in Bakhmut, Ukraine, members of the 95th Air Assault Brigade, including Dziubynskyi, found themselves surrounded by Russian forces. Dziubynskyi described being bombarded with tank and mortar fire, taking cover in trenches, and witnessing the death of his friend Vova. Despite being injured and facing a sniper’s crosshairs, Dziubynskyi used Vova’s body as a shield to protect himself. This wasn’t the first time Vova had saved him, as he had previously protected Dziubynskyi from a Russian soldier in a similar situation in December 2022.
Dziubynskyi and Vova’s friendship was solidified through their shared love of sport, despite meeting each other during military training in the midst of the conflict. Dziubynskyi, a rower who had competed for Ukraine at the World Championships, and Androshchuk, a former national youth champion in decathlon, bonded over their shared stubbornness and strength. Dziubynskyi mentored Androshchuk in various military skills, such as marksmanship and tactical movements, further strengthening their connection.
The harrowing experiences that Dziubynskyi and Androshchuk endured together created a strong bond between them, rooted in mutual respect and admiration for each other’s survival instincts and abilities. Dziubynskyi recounted moments when Androshchuk had saved his life, whether from enemy fire or sniper attacks. Despite facing overwhelming odds and witnessing the death of his friend, Dziubynskyi’s determination to survive and protect Androshchuk’s memory drove him to continue fighting against the Russian forces.
The emotional toll of war is evident in Dziubynskyi’s recollections of his experiences on the battlefield, where he not only faced physical danger but also grappled with the loss of his friend and the challenges of survival. The intensity of the conflict in Bakhmut, with constant enemy fire and the ever-present threat of snipers, added to the trauma that Dziubynskyi and his fellow soldiers endured. Despite the hardships they faced, Dziubynskyi’s unwavering commitment to his friend and his determination to honor his memory fueled his resilience in the face of danger.
The story of Dziubynskyi and Androshchuk’s friendship highlights the bonds that can form in the most challenging and dire circumstances, such as wartime. Their shared experiences on the battlefield and their mutual reliance on each other for survival forged a deep connection that transcended the horrors of war. Through their shared love of sport and their camaraderie in the face of adversity, Dziubynskyi and Androshchuk found strength and solace in each other’s company, even in the midst of chaos and danger.
As Dziubynskyi continues to reflect on the events that unfolded in Bakhmut and the sacrifices made by himself and his comrades, he remains resolute in his commitment to honoring the memory of Androshchuk and all those who have fallen in the conflict. Despite the challenges and traumas of war, Dziubynskyi’s story serves as a testament to the power of friendship, resilience, and courage in the face of overwhelming odds. The bond between Dziubynskyi and Androshchuk stands as a symbol of loyalty, bravery, and sacrifice in the midst of a brutal conflict that has ravaged their homeland.
