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Coronado Today
By the People, for the People
Putin Awards Hero of Russia Medal to 21-Year-Old Soldier
Sergey Yarashev held DPR positions for 68 days before being evacuated with severe injuries
Mar. 10, 2026 at 4:04pm
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Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the award of the prestigious Star of Hero of Russia medal to 21-year-old Sergey Yarashev, who single-handedly held positions in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) for 68 days before being evacuated with severe injuries that required the amputation of both his feet.
Why it matters
The award of the Hero of Russia medal, the country's highest military honor, to such a young soldier underscores the heavy toll the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is taking, especially on young Russian troops. Yarashev's actions and sacrifice have been praised by Russian leadership as an example of bravery and dedication.
The details
According to reports, Yarashev was supplied with ammunition and food by drones during his 68-day solo defense of DPR positions. Despite his severe injuries, he managed to hold out until he was eventually evacuated. The head of the DPR, Denis Pushilin, had appealed to Putin to award Yarashev for his actions.
- Yarashev held DPR positions for 68 days before being evacuated.
- Putin ordered the award of the Hero of Russia medal to Yarashev on March 10, 2026.
The players
Sergey Yarashev
A 21-year-old Russian soldier who single-handedly held DPR positions for 68 days before being evacuated with severe injuries.
Vladimir Putin
The President of Russia who ordered the award of the Hero of Russia medal to Yarashev.
Denis Pushilin
The head of the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) who appealed to Putin to award Yarashev for his actions.
What they’re saying
“I will definitely talk to the commander, and the award will be commensurate with his feat.”
— Vladimir Putin, President of Russia
The takeaway
Yarashev's award of the Hero of Russia medal at just 21 years old highlights the immense sacrifices being made by young Russian soldiers in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the high value the Russian leadership places on acts of bravery and dedication in the face of adversity.
