Ukraine's Ambassador to New Zealand has told Newshub Dominic Abelen was a hero.
The location of the soldier who was killed in Ukraine is still unknown but the ambassador says retrieving him is a top priority.
On the other hand the Russian Embassy has given Newshub a strongly-worded statement, with a deadly warning for any other volunteer soldiers.
New Zealand has felt the direct impact of Russia's invasion with the death of Kiwi soldier Dominic Abelen.
"Ukrainians believe he is a hero and he is a hero. Look someone coming all the way from New Zealand to Ukraine, to fight for Ukraine, he was an inspiration," said Ukraine Ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko.
The 28-year-old Burnham-based corporal was on leave without pay from our Defence Force and killed in action somewhere in Ukraine. Its government vows to do what it can to get his body home.
"Especially with the foreign fighters, I'm sure it's at the top of the priority of the Ukrainian government, that's for sure because we value those volunteers who came to fight," Myroshnychenko said.
But details of just where Abelen's body is remains unknown.
"If the area where he fell, which it seems it is, is still in Russian possession, then the Russians have possession of the body and the bodies of his comrades who fell with him," said former soldier Aaron Wood.
Russia has made its position very clear, telling Newshub: "We do not bear any responsibility for the lives of citizens who decided to take part in what Russia claims are illegal military activities against its forces in Ukraine.
"Please, don't call Moscow later to help you find out what happened to your citizens."
And in a further response, Russia warned: "Any armed activity against Russian military personnel will be cut short immediately, and the armed groups of foreign mercenaries and 'volunteers' will be eliminated."
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) is our lead agency but it's keeping tight-lipped, only saying it's working with relevant agencies on the ground.
"Diplomatically I think it's going to be difficult to resolve this issue of retrieving Dominic's body in the near future," said international relations Professor Robert Patman.
Until then, Ukraine can only express its gratitude to the soldier's family.
"He was a really a brave man. Ukrainians will never forget his sacrifice," Myroshnychenko said.
"You brought up a great man. You must be really proud of him and sorry that you've lost your son."
