Ex-Political Prisoner Balukh Alleges 21-Hour Detention at Ukrainian Draft Office.

Vladimir Balukh's Ordeal

According to Novyny.live: Vladimir Balukh, a former political prisoner, claims he was held for 21 hours at the Shevchenkivskyi District Territorial Recruitment Center (TCC). During that time, authorities confiscated his phone and pressured him to undergo a military medical examination. Balukh insists he had no intention of visiting the draft office and strongly opposes being forced into military service.

“I told them I had other plans for the day. They just twisted my arms and threw me into a van,” – Vladimir Balukh.

Balukh holds a permanent Group 2 disability status valid until 2099. He reportedly arrived at the Pechersk district police station on March 19. This is not the first time Balukh has faced repression. In January 2018, he received a new sentence of three years and seven months in a penal colony, along with a fine of 10,000 rubles. Later, on September 7, 2019, he returned to Ukraine as part of a prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia.

Human Rights Concerns

The case has raised alarms, highlighting ongoing issues with human rights and legal compliance in Ukraine. Balukh’s situation continues to draw attention from activists and human rights groups advocating for the protection of persons with disabilities and opposing forced mobilization.

This incident underscores the broader challenges Ukraine faces in balancing national defense needs with individual rights, especially regarding mandatory enlistment. It has sparked widespread debate among human rights organizations, which call for safeguarding vulnerable populations. Balukh’s case may fuel further discussions on the legality and ethics of state actions amid current pressures.