"KOTUS"

Oleksandr was born in Mariupol. He grew up without a father, but that did not prevent him from becoming courageous and strong—both morally and physically. He studied at Pryazovskyi State Technical University, but in 2014 he stood up to defend Ukraine. After returning from service, he continued his education at Mariupol State University, where he studied Greek philology. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to creativity: he wrote poetry and music and sang. He was a deep and sensitive person who felt the world keenly. During the full-scale invasion of Mariupol, his childhood friend Kostia was killed. This loss, together with the occupation of his hometown, became a painful impetus for Oleksandr to defend Ukraine again. He deliberately waited for recruitment specifically to the Azov Brigade, and on 16 October 2022 he became part of it. As he himself said: “Life is war. And in this war, everything worthwhile is achieved only through struggle—with circumstances, factors, and yourself.” “For him, it was not simply a choice—it was an inner duty and a calling of the heart,” recalls his wife Anastasiia. Oleksandr’s brothers-in-arms say: “He always remained composed and uncompromising toward the enemy, constantly improved his skills, and prepared himself to be effective. In critical situations he remained calm, even when chaos reigned.” His mother, Tetiana Ivanivna, remembers: “For me he was a caring son and a good person. In our family, we never heard insults or harsh words from him. He knew how to protect those close to him and create warmth around himself.” Oleksandr Makhotenko was killed on 28 May 2025 while carrying out a combat mission. Twelve days after his death, his son was born. His wife named the boy after the bravest father, just as they had planned together.