“Sergii loved life, and not only his own. That is why he became a rescuer, a great rescuer, and instructor. He saved many lives during his professional path and gave his life saving others. He is in our minds. He is in our hearts.”

This was the heartfelt, emotional tribute from Chief Pilot, Sergy Kostyuk, at a memorial service for his fallen colleague, Sergii Prykhodko, who was killed when a UN helicopter was attacked in conflict-affected Nasir, Upper Nile State, on 7 March 2025.

As a member of a Ukrainian aviation team contracted by UNMISS, Mr. Prykhodko flew into Nasir on an evacuation mission to help prevent further violence and de-escalate tensions which had the potential to spill over into other parts of the country. The operation was undertaken at the request of all parties and with safety assurances.

Despite this, the team encountered heavy fire while on the ground. In addition to the loss of Mr. Prykhodko, two of his colleagues suffered serious injuries.