Biography

Roman Vitaliiovych Lozytskyi was born on March 15, 1998, in the village of Novopetrivka, Odesa region. From childhood, he was active and creative, taking part in ballroom dancing and student theater. He studied at the Faculty of Marketing at the Odesa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, and for a time worked abroad in the Czech Republic. His energy, optimism, and determination shaped his path both in civilian life and later in military service.

In 2020, Roman signed a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine, serving as a radio interception operator. On February 10, 2022, he was assigned to the 140th Separate Reconnaissance Battalion and stationed in Skadovsk. There he faced the outbreak of Russia’s full-scale invasion. In the first days of war, he and his comrades endured heavy bombardments, surviving against overwhelming odds. For weeks, they hid and regrouped before continuing their mission. Eventually, Roman was captured by Russian forces along with fellow soldiers, beginning a long and difficult period of captivity.

During his time in captivity, Roman was held in several locations across occupied and Russian-controlled territories, including Kherson, Sevastopol, and later facilities in Voronezh and Vladimir regions. Despite harsh conditions, he remained resilient, encouraging his comrades and holding firmly to his principles. His strength of spirit was remembered by those who survived alongside him.

On January 24, 2024, Roman’s life was tragically cut short. He was among the Ukrainian prisoners of war aboard an Il-76 aircraft that crashed in the Korochanskyi district of Belgorod region, Russia.

His sacrifice was recognized with the honorary “Combatant’s Cross,” awarded posthumously.

Roman Lozytskyi was laid to rest in the settlement of Velyka Mykhailivka, Odesa region. He is remembered as a devoted son, a courageous soldier, and a steadfast defender of Ukraine. His legacy endures in the hearts of his family, comrades, and all who honor the memory of those who gave their lives for freedom.