Stephen Zabielski was confirmed to be the second American citizen who died fighting Russian forces in Ukraine, according to an obituary issued by the US State Department. He was 52 years old.

It is unclear how many Americans have traveled overseas to assist Ukraine since fighting began in February but the number is believed to be in the hundreds, if not more, Associated Press reported.

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The US State Department had previously issued an advisory that suggested all American citizens not travel to Ukraine. Additionally, all US citizens who were already in war-torn Ukraine were requested to leave immediately. 

Who was Stephen Zabielski?

Stephen Zabielski, 52, hailed from the town of Hernando in Florida. Before going to Ukraine, he lived in Cranesville in New York, according to the obituary published in The Recorder, an upstate New York newspaper.

Zabielski leaves behind his five stepchildren, wife and seven siblings who live in the United States, NBC News reported. His family has also been provided with “all possible consular assistance” after his death, a spokesperson of the US State Department said.

Zabielski’s obituary revealed that he had been working in the American construction industry for more than three decades. He also enjoyed “hunting, fishing, and riding his Harley.” The obituary added, “Steve will be missed by all who knew and loved him.”

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How did Stephen Zabielski die?

 Zabielski was reportedly a veteran of the US armed forces. He died after tripping over a landmine in Ukraine, according to various media reports.

Rolling Stone magazine first reported the death of Zabielski citing various on-ground sources. He had reportedly picked up arms against the Russian forces, who have been pounding Ukraine since February 24, 2022.