Ukraine's Postal Chief Sparks Outrage with 'Mentally Ill' Remark About Minimum Wage Earners.

Controversial Remarks from Ukrposhta's CEO

According to TSN.ua: Ihor Smilianskyi, the Director General of Ukraine's national postal service Ukrposhta, has ignited a public scandal following his comments about people who work for minimum wage. In a discussion about the country's labor market, Smilianskyi asserted that individuals who choose to work for the minimum wage have a 'mentally ill' mindset. These remarks were published on the social network Threads, where they quickly drew widespread criticism and backlash from users.

Public Backlash and Wider Context

Smilianskyi's comments have provoked significant public anger, particularly as they come at a time when many Ukrainians face severe economic hardship due to the ongoing war. While acknowledging that millions of job vacancies currently exist in Ukraine, Smilianskyi argued this does not justify accepting work at the lowest pay level.

“My answer is — I don't f**king want to work for minimum wage, and moreover, if you are a healthy man or woman and you work for minimum wage today, then sorry, you are mentally ill, when there are millions of vacancies in Ukraine.”

Ihor Smilianskyi

This incident marks the latest in a series of controversies involving Ukrposhta. The state-owned company was recently scrutinized for a contentious advertising campaign and for spending 600,000 hryvnias on a rebranding effort. The online reaction to Smilianskyi's statement continues to highlight the critical need for responsible public commentary from officials leading major state enterprises.

The case underscores the sensitive nature of minimum wage issues in Ukraine, where many citizens struggle financially. Smilianskyi's words have been widely perceived as dismissive of those who may lack the opportunity or mobility to secure better employment. This episode brings into sharp focus the complex social and economic factors that influence job choices and wage levels across the nation.