“Russian warship, go f— yourself.”— Roman Hrybov, Snake Island, 2022
Born in 1990 in Zolotonosha, Roman worked as a bulldozer operator before his passion for serving his country led him to the military. In 2018 he joined the Ukrainian Marine Corps, and soon became a key member of the 35th Separate Marine Brigade.
In 2022, stationed on Snake Island and faced with a demand from a Russian warship to surrender, Roman answered with the now-legendary reply that became an iconic symbol of Ukrainian resistance. His defiance in the face of overwhelming odds showed the world the strength of the Ukrainian spirit in the darkest days of the war.
Captured by Russian forces, Roman endured physical and psychological torture — from Crimea to tent camps and prisons — subjected to cruel treatment. Forced into a prisoner's robe and put under intense mental pressure, he never gave in. His endurance stands as a testament to the strength of the Ukrainian people.
