Vlasenko, a soldier in the 30th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after Prince Konstantin Ostrojski, has been awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine following a challenging deployment. From June 3, 2025, to February 15, 2026, he steadfastly held a fire position known as “Vertun” near the village of Synkivka in the Kharkiv region.
Despite continuous Russian shelling, Vlasenko prevented enemy movements and effectively destroyed their personnel and equipment at the approaches to the position, according to reports.
In February of this year, Russian attacks led to the complete destruction of the “Vertun” position, resulting in severe injuries to both of Vlasenko’s legs, while his comrade went missing.
Finding shelter near a school, Vlasenko administered medical assistance to himself. Attempts to evacuate him with a ground robotic complex failed when the device was destroyed before reaching the site.
“Any other means of evacuation were impossible. Walking to the position was too risky due to constant Russian shelling,” stated officials.
Vlasenko developed gangrene, leading to the loss of one foot, while he had to amputate the other himself due to his injuries. Nonetheless, he continued to observe enemy movements discreetly, relaying crucial information to his comrades.
The Presidential Office noted that he remained at the position alone for 232 days.
On October 4, Vlasenko was successfully evacuated using the Heavy Shot “Ayudag-6,” a heavy multi-functional hexacopter adapted for transport, after months of preparation involving various military units and the manufacturer of modular drone systems.
