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Vice President of the Ukrainian Chess Federation, Artem Sachuk, Tragically Falls in Battle
November 28, 2023
News,World of Chess
Artem Sachuk, serving as Vice President of the Ukrainian Chess Federation, tragically lost his life amidst the conflict in Ukraine. Sunday marked the end of his journey, on what would have been the eve of his 39th birthday. Sachuk is remembered by his spouse and their two offspring.
Artem Sachuk
The specifics surrounding his demise remain unverified, yet the Federation has cited that Sachuk perished in the struggle for liberation from the Russian forces. Post-invasion by Russia, Sachuk took up arms to defend his nation.
A respected candidate master in chess, Sachuk attained a pinnacle FIDE score of 2298. His tenure included Vice Presidency at the Federation and leading the Agency for Regional Development in the Zhytomyr Region, situated 140 kilometers from Kyiv. His efforts also spanned the organization of national and international chess events.
In an October social media update, Sachuk recounted a dialogue with Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Sports, which included deliberations over sanctions against FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, previously a Russian Deputy Prime Minister.
Conversing with Suspilne, a Ukrainian outlet, in 2022, Sachuk shared insights on instructing chess to his comrades-in-arms, drawing parallels between the game and military tactics.
“Chess is essentially a simulation of combat, holding practical significance. It’s not uncommon to find chess players among the ranks defending Ukraine,” Sachuk had articulated.
In recognition of his valor and dedicated military service, Sachuk was honored by President Volodymyr Zelensky this April.
The chess community in Ukraine grieves for Sachuk. Grandmaster Natalia Zhukova expressed her sorrow on social media, lamenting the ongoing war that continues to claim lives. Recalling unfulfilled plans to meet in Odesa, she reflected on the loss of a man with grand aspirations for Ukrainian chess.
Grandmaster Mikhail Golubev acknowledged Sachuk’s contributions and his unique ability to engage with players on critical matters, despite his active military service. Despite occasional differences, Golubev speaks of Sachuk’s patriotism and his commitment to chess in the country, and offers his respects.
Sachuk’s legacy lives on through his family and the community he served with passion and dedication.