Igor Girkin

Igor Girkin

One of the leaders of the unrecognized DPR is from Russia.
Date of Birth: 17.12.1970
Country: Russia

Content:
  1. Birth and Early Life
  2. Military Career
  3. Journalistic Work
  4. Involvement in Ukraine
  5. Command of the DPR Forces
  6. Personal Life and Legacy

Birth and Early Life

Igor Vsevolodovich Girkin was born into a military family on December 17, 1970, in Moscow. From an early age, he was fascinated by history, particularly the military reconstruction and history of the White Movement.

Military Career

After completing his compulsory military service in 1993-1994, Girkin opted for a military career instead of his historical studies. He served in combat operations in Transnistria, Bosnia, and Chechnya. His autobiographical work, "Bosnian Diary," was published in the late 1990s.

Journalistic Work

Girkin's writing career began in 1998 with the publication of his first work in the Russian newspaper "Zavtra." His writings criticized the government's national policies and covered events in conflict zones.

Involvement in Ukraine

Driven by personal convictions, Girkin arrived in Ukraine in late February or early March 2014. He played a key role in uniting opponents of the Kyiv government and establishing a militia force.

Command of the DPR Forces

On May 12, 2014, Girkin assumed command of the DPR's armed forces and declared a counterterrorism operation. He vowed to detain and disarm Ukrainian neo-Nazi groups and eliminate those who resisted.

Personal Life and Legacy

Girkin is married and has two sons. Despite legal charges and investigations, Girkin remains a controversial figure in the Donbas region, viewed by many as a protector against perceived Ukrainian nationalism.

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