Tetiana, 23, callsign “Puma”, and Illia, 20, callsign “Mechanic”, volunteered for military service and now serve in the same unit under Ukraine’s “Contract 18–24” programme.

The 154th Separate Mechanised Brigade shared their story.

Tetiana and Illia have known each other for almost two years, but began dating shortly before they both joined the military.

Both voluntarily signed up under the “Contract 18–24” programme. Illia’s family connections helped them choose the 154th Brigade: his brother and uncle were already serving there.

Tetiana’s family had mixed reactions to her decision. Her father was worried but proud of his daughter.

Her mother still worries. Friends initially tried to dissuade her, but now call, offer support and send care packages.

Today, Puma and Mechanic serve in the same unit of the 154th Brigade. Both are from Kharkiv and are now defending southern Ukraine together.

They share both a relationship and military service. They support each other and find time to be together amid the demands of military life.