RUSSIA KILLS RESCUE SQUAD COMMANDER

STAND WITH UKRAINE’S FIRST RESPONDERS

Mine Rescue Squad Commander Killed in Russian Drone Attack

On June 24, 2025, Anton Zemlyanyi, commander of the 10th Mine Rescue Squad in frontline Donetsk Oblast, was killed in a Russian FPV drone attack.

Anton was a dedicated member of the Independent Trade Union of Mineworkers of Ukraine (NGPU) and, alongside his squad, played a vital role in rescue operations, assisting civilians affected by Russian bombings.

Chris Kitchen, General Secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers, who recently met the rescue squad while delivering essential aid, condemned this war crime, stating:

“Innocent civilians should never be a target in war. To deliberately attack mine rescue workers who risk their lives to save others is an outrage of the worst kind. These teams, using their rescue training to aid civilians while the mines remain inactive, are true heroes.”

Russian forces are systematically targeting rescue workers as they respond to civilian casualties of bombings.

Mykhailo Volynets, Chairman of the Confederation of Free Trade Unions of Ukraine (KVPU), paid tribute to Anton, posting:

“The Independent Trade Union of Mineworkers of Ukraine, along with miners and rescuers, expresses sincere condolences to the family of our fallen comrade. We will remember Anton as a reliable colleague, a selfless citizen, a skilled professional in mine rescue, and a kind-hearted man. Rest in peace, brother.”

The Ukraine Solidarity Campaign continues to provide direct aid to the 10th Mine Rescue Squad, who remain steadfast in their heroic work amid Russian aggression.

We call on the global labour movement to stand in solidarity with Ukraine’s first responders, who are being targeted by the Russian military.

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