Military Personnel Face Pressure for Protest Support: Medical Chief of 'Da Vinci Wolves' Speaks Out on Scrutiny.

Servicemembers Under Fire for Backing Protests

According to 5 канал — Політика: Alina Mykhailova, head of the medical service unit 'Ulf' within the 'Da Vinci Wolves' battalion, has raised concerns about the pressure exerted on soldiers who publicly support protest actions, particularly those in favor of former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. She reports that troops are being subjected to inspections and disciplinary measures simply for expressing their views, creating unease among the ranks. This situation highlights ongoing tensions between military duty and personal freedoms in Ukraine.

Mykhailova emphasized that

“they are going after servicemembers who voice their opinions. And heaven forbid they also take part in peaceful rallies. Even during their lawful leave time.”

These remarks indicate that soldiers risk their positions, ranks, and future opportunities by participating in protests. As she noted,

“for many in uniform, supporting protests can cost them their jobs. Their rank. Reprimands. Closed doors. Or simply a 'preventive conversation' to remind them where they are and whom they serve.”

Systematic Monitoring of Speech

Among those who have spoken out about the pressure is soldier Serhii Hniezdilov, who reported that his commanders faced repercussions after he posted publicly. He recounted that

“I published a post at 9:00 PM. The next day, by 6:00 AM, all my commanders had already received phone calls.”

Such actions point to a systematic oversight of what servicemembers say publicly.

Dmytro Koziantynskyi, a combat medic formerly with the 'Ulf' medical unit of the 'Da Vinci Wolves' battalion who left the army a year ago, noted that 'for context: Dmytro Koziantynskyi is a combat medic who resigned from the military a year ago. That means he no longer has any connection to the Armed Forces.' This illustrates that even individuals who have left service can face backlash for their public statements.

Mykhailova further stressed that

“the army does not just defend territory. It defends a state where citizens have the right to their own opinions.”

Her words underscore the importance of free expression in a society striving for democracy and human rights. When troops face intimidation for their activism, the situation demands attention from both the public and government institutions.

Mykhailova's statements highlight the urgent issue of free speech among military personnel, which could have serious consequences for their morale and psychological well-being. In the context of modern Ukraine, where the military plays a crucial role in national defense, ensuring the right to voice opinions and participate in civic actions without fear of reprisal is essential. This matter calls for deeper discussion across society and government, as freedom of speech remains a cornerstone of democracy.