Two American volunteers have been killed recently while fighting against Russian forces in Ukraine.

The State Department confirmed that they are in touch with the family of two recently deceased citizens, without divulging their names.

Pro-Russian military bloggers had claimed earlier Wednesday that an American “mercenary” had been killed in battles for the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. They identified him as Edward Walter Wilton.

“We can confirm the death of a U.S. citizen in Ukraine. We are in touch with the family and providing all possible consular assistance,”

a State Department spokesperson told about Wilton.

“Out of respect for the family’s privacy during this difficult time, we have nothing further to add.”

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Grady Kurpasi, a Marine veteran, was also killed while defending Ukraine against Russian forces, according to a GoFundMe that appears to be set up on behalf of his family.

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      Visegrád 24 @visegrad24 · 1h   The 22-year-old American volunteer soldier Edward Wilton has been killed in battle against the Russian Army in Bakhmut. Rest In Peace Edward. Ukraine will never forget your sacrifice!