Sad news from the front: Ukrainian actor passes away

Ukrainian actor Vasyl Kucharski died on Thursday, December 7, nearly three months after sustaining serious injuries in a brawl with Russian troops. He was 42 years old.

"Vasyl Kucharski has passed away. He will never return to life," the Kyiv Theatre in Podil announced in a Facebook statement. Reports suggest that Kucharski joined the Ukrainian armed forces soon after the Russian invasion began in February 2022.

Kucharski, known for his portrayal in the 2022 film Maksym Osa, based on a comic about the Ukrainian Cossack Maksym Osa, also starred in various television shows and films. His wife Natalia Gordiy-Kucharska remembers him as a gallant warrior, an audacious man, a talented actor, and a dream father.

Upon news of his death, Ukrainians have been moved to express their grief. Many left condolences and tributes under the Facebook post, referring to him as a "real hero of Ukraine".

"Condolences to the family and a big thank you to the hero," wrote social media user Daria Kolomiec. "Strength for the family and friends! One of the best actors," noted another individual.

The news of his death was also shared on social media by Anton Heraszczenko, an advisor to the head of the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs. "Eternal memory and eternal glory to the Ukrainian hero," he proclaimed on platform X.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby has stated that due to the current situation on Capitol Hill, it is impossible to guarantee Ukraine's continued assistance from the US. However, he indicated that President Joe Biden is ready to negotiate with Republicans to resolve the stalemate over support for Ukraine.