The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations is today mourning the loss of Australian volunteer, Sam Pedrazzini, who has been killed defending Ukraine.
Sam’s commitment to Ukraine ran deep. He trained Ukrainian infantry troops in the UK as a member of the ADF’s “Operation Kudu”, before making the decision to resign so he could offer his help directly, on the ground.
Together with his partner, Emily, he moved to Ivano-Frankivsk, and in 2025 arrived in eastern Ukraine to provide combat medical support. He inspired many with his professionalism, and his dedication to evacuating wounded soldiers from the front line.
He was killed as a member of the 3rd Separate Special Operations Regiment during a combat mission in Donetsk Oblast in June 2026.
Sam chose to leave the safety of home to stand with Ukraine. His bravery and selflessness are deeply humbling, and it is heartbreaking that such a fine young man has now lost his life while defending a country he had come to love so deeply.
Sam embodied the best of our Australian values – courage, mateship, and a belief in fairness and justice – and he never wavered from them.
We extend our deepest condolences to Sam’s parents, Leonie and Timothy, who have lost their only child, his partner Emily, and friends and loved ones. Their loss is shared across the Ukrainian community here in Australia.
We will forever hold Sam in our hearts as one of our own. His name will be spoken in gratitude, alongside the other Australian volunteers who have made the ultimate sacrifice defending Ukraine, for as long as Ukraine’s story is told.
Вічная пам’ять! Eternal Memory!
Слава Героям! Glory to the Heroes!
#VichnaPamyat #StandWithUkraine #Australia4Ukraine
Image credit: Suspilne Ivano-Frankivsk
