Ignas Kailius, Lithuanian volunteer killed in Ukraine, laid to rest

Ignas Kailius, a Lithuanian volunteer who died fighting in Ukraine, was buried on Monday in Alvitas Cemetery in the Vilkaviškys district, LRT reports.

Kailius, known to his comrades as “Iggiu” and to locals as “Our Ignutis,” was remembered fondly by family, friends, and fellow soldiers. Residents of Čyčkai, the small village where he grew up, described him as kind-hearted, friendly, and always ready to help. He was active in sports, playing ritinis (a traditional Lithuanian ball game) and football as a goalkeeper for the Marijampolė Sūduva B team.

“He was a very good-hearted, truly friendly person who could help anyone. A good man,” one local said. Another recalled him as a “very lively, very active boy” from childhood.

Kailius served in the Lithuanian military three years ago, completing his mandatory service at the General Adolfas Ramanauskas Training Centre. In February, he joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces, serving in a unit composed of Brazilian and Colombian volunteers. Fellow soldiers praised him as an exemplary fighter—strong, respected, and beloved.

“I came to pay my respects as a soldier who sacrificed his youth and bright future for freedom. I think his example could serve as a model for shaping a value-driven backbone for future generations,” said Robertas Fišeris, commander of a Šaulių Sąjunga (Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union) platoon.

Kailius went missing during a combat mission on June 2 and was later confirmed dead. His funeral included a final gun salute in his honor. Two other Lithuanians, Tadas Tumas and Tomas Valentėlis, had previously died fighting in Ukraine.