South Ossetia has paid last tributes to Marik Demeev (call sign "Zeppa"), who died heroically while serving in the line of duty in the special military operation zone.
Since July 2025, the soldier had been listed as missing in action. It was later confirmed that he had died during a combat mission. His body has only been recently recovered.
The Republic's leadership led by President Alan Gagloev, along with Russian Ambassador to South Ossetia Marat Kulakhmetov, relatives, comrades-in-arms, and hundreds of residents of the Republic attended the funeral service for Marik.
At the memorial service, President Alan Gagloev expressed his deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased:
"Giving the last honors to such young people is always unbearably difficult. Marik should have lived, raised his children, and enjoyed each new day. But fate decreed otherwise. I express gratitude to everyone who came today to pay tribute to the hero and support his family."
Russian Ambassador Marat Kulakhmetov emphasized in his speech:
"Marik was like granite—firm, unyielding, despising death until his last breath. He demonstrated true courage and became a true hero. People like Marik Demeev shape our future. We must remember and honor their heroism."
Marik Demeev was 29 years old. He is survived by his wife and two young children.
By decree of President of the Republic, Marik Demeyev was posthumously awarded the "Defender of the Fatherland" medal for courage and bravery displayed in defense of the Motherland.
