Dutch volunteer killed on battlefield in Ukraine

A Dutch volunteer in Ukraine has been killed by Russian artillery fire. — De Telegraaf reported on May 9, 2022.

The newspaper named the man as 55-year-old Ron Vogelaar, quoting a family spokesman and the social media post by his daughter Marte.

Vogelaar is understood to have died instantly — when he was struck by artillery fire on May 4, 2022. The Dutch Foreign Ministry said it was still waiting for confirmation from Ukrainian officials.

His daughter wrote: “He never regretted the decision [to fight]. He was happy and felt like he was in the right place. Ron started over many times, went on a lot of adventures, and led a full life. As his commander said: He died a hero.”

There are around 70 Dutch volunteers currently fighting in Ukraine.

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