At the age of 86, Ihor Kalynets, a prominent dissident and author, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of resistance against oppression in Ukraine. His work during the late sixties and subsequent exile remains deeply etched in history.

The news of his death was announced by the mayor of Lviv, Andriy Sadovyi.

"Ihor Kalynets was part of the elite fighters for independence. Together with his wife Iryna, they symbolized resilience and true intellectualism," Sadovyi remarked.

"We will remember him as a person of great spirit and sincere kindness. Eternal memory," added the regional administration.

Born in Khodoriv in Lviv region, Ihor witnessed the horrors of communist repression from an early age but remained undaunted, continuing to study banned literary works.

He received a higher education at Lviv University, where he met notable figures such as poet Ivan Drach.

His works were published in various magazines, but starting from 1965, he and his wife became targets of the KGB due to their activism.

In 1972, Ihor was arrested for publishing books abroad and spent years in camps and exile, eventually returning to Lviv where he continued his efforts.

Kalynets was an active participant in the cultural movement, organizing memorial events and engaging in human rights advocacy. He also contributed to the establishment of the Society of the Ukrainian Language and other civic initiatives.

In 2017, in an interview, he shared observations about contemporary youth, urging them towards patriotism and selflessness.