Ukrainian fighter who studied in Lithuania killed weeks before becoming a father

Danyla “Serfer” Smirnovas was killed in Ukraine on August 28, just weeks before he was expected to become a father.

His wife, Eva “Junga” Smirnova, who also serves in the Ukrainian army, announced his death. “My Dania ‘Serfer’ has been killed. 2026-08-28. In a few weeks, his continuation will be born, our son, little Smirnov. And then I will take revenge,” she wrote.

Smirnovas commanded an assault group in the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade’s 2nd Mechanized Battalion. He later joined the International Legion of Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence, according to the account. He told a Ukrainian television channel that he had been 16 when Russia launched its full-scale invasion. Several men in his family then joined Ukraine’s armed forces.

His parents had wanted him to continue his education, and he lived and studied in Lithuania for a time. After turning 18, and after his uncle was seriously wounded near Bakhmut, Smirnovas decided to return to Ukraine and enlist as well.

The couple met during the war and married in July 2025. Eva serves in the Rubizh brigade’s combat unit and operates FPV drones. She said Smirnovas had dreamed of a son, a family and becoming the best father.

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My Dania ‘Serfer’ has been killed. 2026-08-28. In a few weeks, his continuation will be born, our son, little Smirnov. And then I will take revenge.