Irpin Makes History

The Kyiv offensive was a theater of warfare from February 24th through April 4th, 2022, during the early days of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian capital’s western suburbs, including towns like Bucha & Irpin, erupted in combat as the Russian forces attempted to encircle and ultimately capture Kyiv.

Irpin’s local officials worked alongside the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the town’s civilians to set up defensive positions in preparation for the advancing Russian forces. Critically, the inhabitants of Irpin were given firearms, ammunition, and training to support the defense of their nation.

In the end, Russia’s Kyiv offensive failed and by April of 2022 Ukrainian forces subsequently retook control over Russian-occupied areas in the oblast. Olesandr Markushyn, Mayor of Irpin, was awarded the Order of Courage for his heroic actions to defend the city during Russia’s assault. It was then that the world learned of Irpin’s fate and the impact an armed populace can make against a foreign aggressor.