Massimiliano Galletti, an Italian volunteer was killed in Ukraine. A volunteer stretcher bearer from San Benedetto del Tronto, he lost his life last Monday. Shrapnel from a grenade, mortar, or RPG hit him during an attack on the outskirts of Kyiv.
Accompanied by his dog and a Sardinian friend, Galletti sustained serious injuries, leaving him in a coma for a month. Ukrainian authorities notified Italy’s Foreign Ministry of his passing.
Galletti’s family, who had not heard from him in weeks, are now working to bring his body back to Italy. His daughter described him as “a hero” in a heartfelt social media post.
At home in the Marche region, those who knew him emphasised he was “not a foreign fighter, but a volunteer helping the wounded.” The Digos of Ascoli has launched an investigation to determine if he was in a combat zone or assisting Ukrainian forces. The circumstances around his death remain unclear.
His wife, Donatella, shared with Il Resto del Carlino that “Massimiliano was a rescuer and a paramedic,” adding that he left with his dog to search for injured people and victims. Now, she faces complex repatriation procedures and worries over possible cremation due to delayed authorisations.
Frequently volunteered in war zones
Galletti’s Sardinian friend also stayed with him, hoping to aid his return to Italy. This was not his first mission to Ukraine; Galletti frequently volunteered in war zones, taking leave from his municipal job. His family grew concerned after a month of no news, leading his employer to end his employment.
San Benedetto’s mayor, Antonio Spazzafumo, has offered assistance to expedite his repatriation.
In a moving tribute, Galletti’s daughter, Aurora, wrote: “Ciao Papi. You have always been my point of reference… I know you flew away as a hero, the hero you’ve always been for me and those you saved. I am proud of you as a father and as a man. You will always be in my heart.”
