Canadian volunteer dies near Bakhmut while evacuating wounded Ukrainian AFU soldiers

CBC News reports.

Hildebrand died last week while evacuating wounded fighters near Bakhmut. Details of the operation are still unknown, but nine of the 12 members of his international unit died along with the Canadian.

CBC News notes that Hildebrand, 33, was a farmer in Saskatchewan. He had no relatives or other ties to Ukraine, however, having previously served two terms in Afghanistan as part of Canadian contingent, he wanted to help Ukrainians. He left for Ukraine from Canada on June 11.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe called Hildebrand a true hero.

"We must ensure his death is not in vain. Canada must do everything it can to ensure Ukraine defeats Russia and rises again as a free, independent, prosperous nation," Moe said.

Negotiations are currently underway to bring Hildebrand's ashes to Canada, where they will be scattered near the farm, in accordance with his own wishes.