A hero’s sacrifice: Kamyshin resident Anatoly Ivko killed in battle with terrorists in Mali

A resident of the city of Kamyshin in the Volgograd region, Anatoly Ivko, was killed in Mali during an anti-terrorist operation, the city administration reported.

The soldier was a member of the special forces unit of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff of the RF Armed Forces.

Anatoly Ivko was born on October 5, 1978, in the city of Kamyshin. After graduating from school he entered the Ryazan Higher Airborne School, after which he served in the special forces of the GRU. For participation in hostilities he was awarded the Order of Courage in 2008.

In Mali, Ivko performed tasks to ensure the security of the Russian embassy. On March 19, a group of terrorists attacked the embassy building, trying to break into the building. A fierce battle ensued, during which the Russian military repelled the attack. As a result of the battle, three terrorists were killed and several more were injured. Unfortunately, Anatoly Ivko was mortally wounded during the battle.

The administration of Kamyshin expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. Anatoly Ivko will be posthumously awarded the Order of Courage. He will be buried in his hometown.