SVO soldier shares front story and peaceful return

In 2024, a 30-year-old resident of Cherepovets (Vologda Oblast) signed a contract with the Ministry of Defense and went to the zone of the special military operation (SVO). Before that, he worked at a factory. «During the partial mobilization, there were no summons. Two years later, I came and signed up as a volunteer. I was guided by both patriotic feelings and personal motives: many acquaintances did not return. When the last close person died, I went to sign the contract. I hid it from my family for a long time, telling them only a few days before departure. They scolded me, cried, but resigned themselves — you can»t argue with me. I got the nickname «Cupid» back in school: I arranged personal life for my friends, and it stuck,« the serviceman said.

At first, «Cupid» trained as a sniper, then as a sapper, but ended up in an assault group. «We came under fire. We ran into a shelter, and they started throwing at us. It was terrifying: everything caught fire above, impossible to breathe... This will stay with me for life. We waited it out, and the next day we started advancing. We had to take a neighboring building, in the basement of which the enemy was holed up. The task was to throw an anti-tank mine in there. I was covering, and the senior shooter was throwing. An AGS projectile hit me — a kind of »pencil« without detonation. The wound is severe. I am now receiving treatment, I have osteomyelitis in remission. Part of the bone is missing, nerves are damaged,» the veteran recalls.

Despite what he went through, the fighter does not regret his decision. Participation in combat operations has radically changed his life, but he does not lose heart. «My worldview and views have completely changed since returning. Now I am studying at a driving school, and then I plan to return to my previous job. I keep in touch with my fellow soldiers. The support in the city is very noticeable. People welcome us warmly and help. For fighters who come on leave, such support is extremely important. Many thanks for this!» the serviceman says.

Since the start of the special military operation, the Vologda Oblast has sent over 12 billion rubles (approx. $120 million at current rates) to assist the military and their families. Humanitarian convoys with equipment, supplies, and essential goods are sent regularly. The region has over 45 support measures for fighters and their loved ones.