19-Year-Old Infantryman Captures Three Russian Soldiers During Assault

A 19-year-old infantryman from the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade named after the Black Zaporizhzhia, who goes by the call sign 'Malyi', managed to capture three Russian soldiers during one of the assaults on the front lines. However, during the execution of his combat mission, he also sustained injuries from an enemy drone strike.

This information was confirmed on Wednesday, April 8, by representatives of the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade. Infantryman Malyi shared his impressions of the events that transpired during the assault. 'I feel better now. I’m not just some 19-year-old kid — I’ve already done something in my life,' he noted, emphasizing his pride in the completed task.

Malyi recounted that in the spring of 2025, he signed a contract for service lasting 18 to 24 months. His decision to go to the front lines was motivated by the tragic death of his cousin, which spurred him to not remain at home during the war.

During one of the assaults, when he received orders to enter a dugout that was believed to be empty, it turned out that Russian occupiers were hiding inside. 'My guys fell back, and I was left alone. On adrenaline. I’m yelling to the guys on the radio: 'Bring more grenades!'' he described the tense situation he found himself in.

Malyi also mentioned that he and another soldier decided to psychologically pressure the Russians to force them to surrender. 'We said: 'Do you want to live? You have families, children. Come out, or we’ll drop a thermobaric bomb on you!' At that time, I didn’t even have a thermobaric bomb in my hands,' he added, emphasizing that their words had an effect.

As a result, the Russian soldiers decided to surrender. However, after this, according to Malyi, a Russian drone dropped munitions near him. 'A Russian Mavic flew up and dropped some large munitions on me. I managed to jump aside, but the explosion still hit me. I got up — my entire pant leg was covered in blood. I was scared that I had severed an artery, but thank God that didn’t happen,' he recounted the moment he was injured.

After sustaining his injuries, he received medical assistance and was evacuated along with the prisoners. Malyi expressed hope for a quick recovery and a return to normal life.

He also shared his future plans, noting that after completing his contract, he intends to return home and marry his beloved. However, he does not rule out the possibility of returning to military service, although not as an infantryman.

This story highlights the heroism of young Ukrainian soldiers who, despite their age, are willing to give everything to defend their country. It also serves as a reminder of the brutality of war and its consequences for young people who are forced to fight for their homeland.