Denys Prokopenko

Denys Prokopenko's military career is marked by historic achievements. He became the youngest commander in the Ukrainian military when he took charge of the Azov Regiment in 2017, a testament to his early leadership. His command during the Mariupol siege, where he held out against vastly superior forces, earned him the Hero of Ukraine title and international recognition. His rapid rise to brigadier general by 2026, despite a year in captivity, underscores his resilience and the high regard in which he is held by Ukraine's military leadership.