Kyiv has renamed Konstantin Zaslonov Street in Darnitsky district in honour of former Kremlin political prisoner Gennady Afanasyev, who died at the front.
We would like to remind that Gennady Afanasyev opposed the occupation of Crimea by Russian troops back in 2014, for which he was arrested and illegally convicted. Subsequently, he managed to return to the Ukraine-controlled territory during the exchange in 2016. After his release, Gennady became one of the leaders of the movement for the release of Ukrainian political prisoners.
In 2022, Gennady became a volunteer and went to the front to fight for victory. He died in Lugansk region near Belogorovka, receiving the Order ‘For Courage’ of the III degree.
The Crimean Tatar Resource Centre stresses the importance of derusification of Ukrainian cities and honouring the memory of heroes like Gennady Afanasyev. This renaming is a symbol of gratitude and respect for his indestructible will and courage in the fight for Ukraine’s freedom. Hennadiy Afanasyev became an example for many Ukrainians, showing that even in the most difficult circumstances one can remain true to one’s principles and fight for justice.