Dmytro Marchenko
Major General Dmytro Marchenko became one of Ukraine's most recognized war heroes for his vocal and effective defense of Mykolaiv in the spring of 2022. His forces repeatedly repelled Russian assaults on the city, preventing the fall of the critical port city and protecting Odesa from encirclement. His frank media communications and resolve inspired civilian morale.
Key Operations
- —Defense of Mykolaiv (Feb–Nov 2022)
- —Counter-operations halting Russian advance toward Odesa
- —Deputy Commander of Ground Forces (2023–present)
Notable
Marchenko famously declared he would turn Mykolaiv into "a second Stalingrad" if Russian forces entered the city. His command style combined aggressive counter-battery operations with media engagement that maintained civilian morale. The defense of Mykolaiv was critical — had the city fallen, the road to Odesa would have been wide open and Ukraine's Black Sea coastline fully threatened.