Brazilian citizen Tiago Nunes, 19, who fought for Ukraine as a volunteer in the international legion, was killed on the battlefield, reports Brazil’s largest news portal, Universo Online. His family was informed of the tragedy on Nov. 28.
Vitório Sorotiuk, President of the Ukrainian-Brazilian Central Representation (UBCR), stated that when Brazilians of Ukrainian descent witness the bravery of Ukrainian soldiers in the face of Russian aggression, their Ukrainian heritage pride swells.
Sorotiuk continued: “At the same time, seeing the solidarity of the Brazilian people with Ukraine and the willingness of many to risk their lives in the fight, we feel proud to be Brazilian.”
Tiago, originally from Rurópolis in northern Brazil, arrived in Ukraine a few months ago, at the end of October.
“He always said he didn’t want to be just another person in the world; he wanted to be useful and help others,” said Luan Nascimento, a friend of Tiago.
In the fallen soldier’s honor, a procession was held in Rurópolis on Nov. 28.
“When I learned of his death, I was devastated and cried a lot. But we must stay strong to honor him,” said Nascimento.
Meanwhile, Russian authorities have spread false claims, alleging that Nunes was “influenced by propaganda.”
At least 12 Brazilians who volunteered to fight in Ukraine have either been killed or are missing, according to Universo Online.
Cover: Universo Online.
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