Maria Zaitseva, a 24-year-old Belarusian from Gomel, tragically lost her life while serving in the 2nd International Legion of Ukraine near Bakhmut. Maria, who had previously been involved in the 2020 protests in Minsk, became a volunteer fighter in Ukraine after she was treated for injuries sustained during those demonstrations. Her death occurred on January 17, 2025, just one day after her 24th birthday. The news of her passing was confirmed by friends and media outlets, including Nasha Niva.
Maria had grown up in Gomel, where she graduated from Blaise Pascal Gymnasium No. 46, an institution known for its focus on the French language. In August 2020, Maria, along with a friend, travelled to Minsk to take part in the mass protests against the widely condemned presidential election results. She was seriously injured during the protests and had to undergo multiple surgeries in Belarus. After her treatment, she was sent to the Czech Republic for further care, where she eventually recovered.
Upon the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, Maria decided to join the Ukrainian forces, feeling a strong commitment to fight for freedom and justice. She joined the 2nd International Legion, a group of foreign fighters from various countries who have come to defend Ukraine against Russian aggression. Tragically, during the ongoing battles near Bakhmut, Maria lost her life in combat.
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