Biography

Andrii Yuriiovych Soskida was born on February 23, 1986, in the city of Mukachevo, Zakarpattia region. He attended local School No.20 and later graduated from the Faculty of Law at Kyiv International University in 2009. Together with his father, he worked as a private lawyer in his hometown, earning respect for his professionalism and fairness. Beyond his career, Andrii was a man of many talents: he drew intricate pictures with pencil and pen, played the guitar, wrote poetry and songs, and even recorded several albums. He loved cooking, with his favorite dish being mushroom soup prepared from his mother’s dried mushrooms.

In 2020, Andrii chose to dedicate his life to military service, signing a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He first served in the 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade, taking part in operations in the Donbas. In 2021, he was reassigned to the 36th Separate Marine Brigade named after Rear Admiral Mykhailo Bilynskyi, where he became an operator in the artillery reconnaissance unit. His comrades gave him the call sign “Advokat,” (Lawyer) reflecting both his civilian profession and his sense of justice.

From the first day of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Andrii fought in the defense of Mariupol. He endured the brutal siege with his fellow marines, standing firm in one of the most difficult battles of the war.

On April 12, 2022, during a breakout attempt from the Illich Steel Plant to the Azovstal complex, Andrii was killed in action.

For his courage and sacrifice, Andrii Soskida was posthumously awarded the Order “For Courage,” 3rd Class. He was buried on February 23, 2023 - his birthday - on the Alley of Heroes in his native Mukachevo.

His life was filled with creativity, kindness, bravery, and the memory of Soldier Andrii Soskida will forever remain in the hearts of his family, comrades, and all who honor his sacrifice.