Former Deputy Prime Minister and diplomat Serhiy Osyka has died
On June 15, Ukrainian diplomat, politician, and statesman Serhiy Osyka passed away. He played a key role in shaping Ukraine’s foreign economic policy during the early years of independence.
Serhiy Osyka was born on March 27, 1955, and for many years held senior government positions related to international trade and economic cooperation.
In 1994–1995, he headed the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations of Ukraine, and from January to July 1995, he served as Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine. After that, from 1995 to 1999, he served as Minister of Foreign Economic Relations and Trade of Ukraine.
Osyka belonged to a generation of statesmen who shaped the economic and trade policies of independent Ukraine, developed international ties, and promoted the country’s integration into global economic processes.
He later continued his career in the diplomatic service and also served as a People’s Deputy of Ukraine in the 4th, 5th, and 6th convocations.
For his significant contribution to the development of the state, Serhiy Osyka was honored with a number of high state and international awards. Among them:
- the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise;
- the Order of Merit;
- the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Portuguese Republic;
- the title of Grand Officer of the Order of San Martín the Liberator of Argentina.
Serhiy Osyka left a lasting mark on the history of Ukrainian diplomacy and public administration, making a significant contribution to the formation of the foreign economic policy of independent Ukraine.
His death on June 15 was reported by family and friends.
Earlier, former head of British foreign intelligence MI6 Alex Younger died at the age of 62 after battling cancer. According to his loved ones, he jokingly referred to his tumor as “Putin.” Prince William and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid tribute to the renowned intelligence officer, noting his contribution to the country’s security and his long service in intelligence.
