Ukrainian Pilot’s Daring Rescue Mission Amid South Sudan Crisis

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a Ukrainian helicopter pilot, faced a perilous situation during a UN mission in South Sudan, marked by a shoot-out that resulted in casualties, including the death of a crew member. Despite sustaining injuries, he successfully piloted the helicopter to safety, highlighting the risks associated with aiding conflict zones. His story captures both the personal toll of such missions and the broader implications for stability in South Sudan.

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a 60-year-old Ukrainian helicopter pilot with extensive military experience, faced a harrowing situation during a United Nations mission in South Sudan. His final deployment before retirement turned dramatic as a routine operation to evacuate injured soldiers escalated into a deadly shoot-out at a military base in Nasir, where he was injured and witnessed the loss of a crew member and numerous South Sudanese soldiers.

During the mission, Captain Muzyka documented the chaos in a video, capturing blood-stained controls and a shattered windscreen while flying low under gunfire. He candidly referred to the experience as “like a movie” and expressed disbelief about the surreal nature of the event.

The UN operation aimed to rescue six injured soldiers, including a general, amid rising tensions in a region previously marked by civil conflict. The unrest stemmed from distrust among ethnic groups and was exacerbated by the movement of additional regular army troops perceived as loyal to President Salva Kiir, which prompted a response from the White Army militia supporting Vice-President Riek Machar.

Captain Muzyka’s aircraft had successfully completed an earlier extraction trip but faced unexpected violence upon their return. As bullets struck the helicopter, he was wounded, prompting him to initiate an urgent take-off while relying on his military training. With the aircraft sustaining critical damage, he navigated low to minimize risk while searching for a safe landing option.

Despite the damage inflicted upon the helicopter, including punctured fuel tanks, Captain Muzyka managed to safely land in Malakal airport nearly an hour later, with considerable relief. However, the crew suffered emotional distress following the death of flight attendant Sergii Prykhodko from his injuries, a loss that deeply affected the team.

Receiving commendations for their bravery, Captain Muzyka and his colleagues were honored with the UN medal of honour. As he returns to Ukraine for recuperation, he remains hopeful for peace and reflects on the lasting impact of his experiences, despite contemplating retirement from piloting.

His story highlights the ongoing challenges in South Sudan and the sacrifices made by those working towards stability in conflict zones, drawing attention to the broader humanitarian implications.

The courageous efforts of Captain Serhiy Muzyka during a harrowing rescue mission in South Sudan underscore the dangers faced by military personnel in volatile regions. Despite sustaining injuries during the operation, he successfully navigated a critical situation, ultimately safeguarding his crew and the injured soldiers. The tragic loss of his colleague adds a somber tone to his narrative, with implications that extend beyond individual experiences, reflecting the ongoing struggles for peace and security in South Sudan and beyond.

Original Source: www.bbc.com