Ukrainian poet and prose writer Oleksiy Bezpaltsiev has died during combat operations on the Kharkiv front. He was 34 years old and had been defending the Pokrovsk direction for over a year. PEN Ukraine highlights Bezpaltsiev’s emotional performances, noting that he was regarded as one of the most significant figures in Kharkiv’s underground and alternative culture.
Bezpaltsiev was known for his distinctive blend of poetry and performance, earning him the nickname “King of Kharkiv trash.” He left a lasting impact on the cultural scene in his hometown.
In another loss on the frontlines of the Russian-Ukrainian war, actor Yakiv Tkachenko was also killed. Tkachenko had joined the territorial defense of Dnipro in the early days of the invasion and served with the 128th Territorial Defense Brigade. He was known for his roles in several films, including Dovbush, Priputni, The Price of Truth, Shameful Bondage, and The Carrier.
One acquaintance of Bezpaltsiev shared a tribute, recalling his love for movies, music, poetry, trash culture, drinking, and cycling. Both Bezpaltsiev and Tkachenko are remembered for their talent and significant contributions to Ukrainian culture.
