In Memory of Police Officer Ruslan Kovbasyuk (Callsign 'Canada')

Ruslan Kovbasyuk, known by his callsign 'Canada', was born on June 12, 1994, in Oleksandriia, Kirovohrad Oblast. From an early age, he was distinguished by his positive outlook on life, sense of humor, and humanity, which became the foundation of his character.

While studying at the Oleksandriia Collegium, Ruslan actively participated in sports, particularly enjoying football and engaging in a sports class. These activities not only shaped his physical fitness but also instilled essential character traits such as perseverance, strength of spirit, teamwork, and a desire for victory. After graduating from the collegium, he pursued his education at the P. Tychyna Uman State Pedagogical University, where he earned a degree in Physical Education.

Continuing his studies, Ruslan enrolled at Dnipro University, where he obtained a higher education. However, his desire to learn did not stop there. During the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war, he continued his education and successfully completed his master's degree at the Central Ukrainian State University named after Volodymyr Vynnychenko, specializing in Law Enforcement Activities.

Ruslan began his career in law enforcement with the patrol service in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and later continued his service in the patrol police of Dnipropetrovsk. In 2022, he joined the Special Rapid Response Unit (KORD) of the Main Directorate of the National Police in Kirovohrad Oblast, where he received the callsign 'Canada'. In this role, he and his comrades undertook missions in the hottest areas of the front, particularly in Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia regions.

During combat operations, Ruslan sustained injuries, but after treatment, he returned to service. Not only did he regain his combat skills, but he also mastered a new military specialization, becoming a pilot of FPV drones. For his significant contribution to the defense of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, Ruslan Kovbasyuk was awarded the Presidential Award 'For the Defense of Ukraine' and held the status of a war veteran who participated in combat operations.

Tragically, the life of the 31-year-old police major was cut short on September 19, 2025, due to enemy shelling in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast. This tragic event represented a profound loss not only for his family but for the entire nation.

Farewell ceremonies for Ruslan Kovbasyuk took place on September 23 in Kropyvnytskyi. The defender found his final resting place at the Alley of Honorary Military Burials at the Far Eastern Cemetery. Ruslan is survived by his mother, sister, wife, and son, who will always remember his heroism and dedication.

In January 2026, Ruslan Kovbasyuk was posthumously awarded the Kirovohrad Oblast award 'For Courage and Valor'. His memory is honored not only by family and friends but also by the entire Ukrainian nation. In the space of the people's memorial in Independence Square in Kyiv, among the names of those who gave their lives for Ukraine, every passerby can see a photo of the defender known by the callsign 'Canada', symbolizing his heroism and bravery.

The story of Ruslan Kovbasyuk is a vivid example of dedication and self-sacrifice, which have become the foundation of the Ukrainian people's struggle for freedom and independence. His contribution to the defense of the country will remain in the memory of many, and his example will inspire new generations to serve their homeland.