Ziya Nadirov, a soldier of the Ukrainian Armed Forces with the call sign “Babay,” was killed on December 3, 2022, in the Beryslav district of the Kherson region during a combat mission. He was 40 years old and died from a landmine explosion while conducting reconnaissance and securing positions.
Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, Ziya was versatile from childhood—interested in cultural studies and carpentry. A significant influence was his uncle, a veteran of the Nagorno-Karabakh War, who instilled in him a passion for firearms and how to handle them properly. Later, Ziya studied Oriental studies and worked at the Baku branch of the international Jewish youth organization Hilell. He underwent military training and service starting in January 2000.
Ziya traveled extensively, living in various European countries. In 2009, he arrived in Ukraine, where he and a friend attempted to start a carpentry business. He settled in the city of Boyarka in the Kyiv region, married, and had two children—Tamerlan and Elnur.
During the Revolution of Dignity, Ziya transported medical supplies and food to the barricades. Prior to the full-scale invasion, he worked for the “Lanet” company. On February 24, 2022, he voluntarily joined the Territorial Defense Forces. He took part in combat near Chornobyl as a reconnaissance-assault soldier within the 112th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade. Later, his unit was deployed to the Kherson axis.
Ziya excelled in weapons maintenance and repair during lulls in battle. His comrades admired his generosity and camaraderie. In conversations with his wife, he shared little about his missions, often joking and sending smiley emojis, assuring her that all was well.
Ziya was laid to rest at the Alley of Heroes in Boyarka. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Glory to the Hero! Eternal memory!