The body of Estonian volunteer soldier Olev Roost, who was killed in Ukraine at the end of August, arrived in Estonia on Wednesday evening, the Ministry of Defence and Postimees reported. Roost, a highly experienced serviceman, is remembered as a symbol of courage and dedication who fought to keep the war from reaching his homeland.

Roost’s military career began in 2010 when he joined the Scouts Battalion, Estonia’s elite infantry unit. He served there until 2017, taking part in foreign missions in Afghanistan in 2011 and 2013. After completing the selection process for the Special Operations Forces (ESTSOF) in 2017, he continued his service in this elite unit, participating in an international mission in Mali in 2020. In 2023, he voluntarily left the Estonian Defence Forces and soon afterward decided to fight as a volunteer in Ukraine.

In Ukraine, Roost joined the 3rd Regiment of the Special Operations Forces, taking part in numerous missions. He was killed during a Russian drone strike while engaged in a special operation.

His former comrades-in-arms described him as “the soul and foundation of the team,” praising his leadership, courage, and ability to inspire those around him. “He went abroad to protect peace in his homeland, risking his life and giving everything so that the war would not reach Estonia,” said one of his fellow soldiers.

Col. Rivo Meimer, commander of ESTSOF, stated that Roost’s sacrifice would be remembered with the highest honor: “His brothers in arms will hold his memory in high regard and will never forget his contribution.”

Roost is the sixth Estonian volunteer to have fallen in Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. His death underscores both Estonia’s deep solidarity with Ukraine and the personal commitment of its citizens who have chosen to join the fight.