Maria Pirogova, a member of the parliament of the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR), has been killed in shelling by Ukrainian troops, a spokesman for the DPR People’s Militia confirmed on Tuesday.
"We confirm her death," the spokesman said.
Maria Pirogova, 29, has been member of the DPR People’s Council since 2018.
DPR leader Denis Pushilin, who recently wished the people of the Donetsk People’s Republic a happy Flag Day, announced that Maria Pirogova, a member of the People’s Council, had been killed in battle.
“Today, Donetsk is once again experiencing a terrible day. Information is constantly coming in about the dead, the number of victims is growing…” he wrote on his Telegram channel.
“I just found out that Maria Pirogova, a member of the People’s Council, a volunteer, was killed. Masha! I can’t believe it…”
He added: “She was the epitome of kindness. The person with the big letter. She helped everybody, she never passed by other’s troubles. Her energy, her talent to do good was enough for everyone. As if she hurried to live.
“Last year she graduated from the Donetsk Academy of Music as a jazz vocalist and wrote her own music.
“In 2014, when she was only 21, she started helping people. She collected things, delivered them to people in need, and was not afraid to go to the most dangerous places to help others.
“It was Masha who initiated the Wishing Tree campaign. Thousands of children’s dreams came true within this project alone. This is a great credit to Masha.
“Fascist beasts cut off her life in her prime…
“Sincere words of condolence to Masha’s family and friends. This is a great loss for all of us.”
News of her death spread on social media, with many paying tribute to the young woman.
