A Loud Incident in Kharkiv: Mayor Terekhov Revealed Details and Emphasized the Importance of Trust in State Institutions
In Kharkiv, the discussion around a conflict between a civilian resident and a representative of the Territorial Recruitment Center (TCC) has resumed. According to Mayor Ihor Terekhov, the situation caused widespread resonance not only due to the use of force but also because of the complexity surrounding the legal status of the injured party—a school teacher who teaches history and the subject "Defence of the Homeland." As Terekhov stated during a press briefing, the man who was hit in the stomach a few days ago on Primerivska Street is a homeroom teacher of the 8th grade at one of the city’s schools. He holds a higher educational degree and is actively engaged in teaching activities. At the moment of the conflict, he was demonstrating documents confirming his right to a deferment from mobilization—so-called "bounty," which, according to current legislation, is intended to protect such citizens from forced military service. "Details of this incident confirm that the victim did not break the law nor provoke the conflict. He remained calm and did not resist, showing documents that verify his lawful status. All these moments are recorded on video footage, which was promptly made public and has become part of the official investigation," Terekhov emphasized. The city head added that despite respecting the work of military enlistment offices and their representatives, incidents like these undermine trust in government institutions. He stressed the importance of maintaining balance and preventing situations that could discredit the efforts of the Ukrainian army and state structures. "While there are many worthy and sincerely dedicated people working at TCCs, we cannot ignore cases that destroy public trust in the government system. Authorities and law enforcement must respond quickly and efficiently so that such incidents do not remain uninvestigated," Terekhov noted. The mayor also called on law enforcement leadership to conduct an objective, comprehensive investigation of the incident and hold those responsible accountable. At the same time, he expressed hope that such manifestations are isolated cases and do not reflect the overall level and moral standards of all TCC employees. The background of the conflict dates back to May 11, when the Kharkiv Regional Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Center officially announced an internal investigation regarding a video posted on social media. The footage shows a representative of the military enlistment office applying physical force to a civilian—a man who, according to witnesses, behaved provocatively. The agency, in its official comment, stated that the conflict arose due to "provocative actions of the citizen," but condemned the use of any physical force. They particularly emphasized that such actions contradict their values and rules, and that the situation would be investigated within the framework of the law. This case sparked widespread public resonance and raised discussion about trust between citizens and the state, especially in the context of mobilization processes and military service. Moreover, it provided additional grounds for authorities to emphasize the importance of respectful and humane treatment of every citizen, particularly those with documents exempting them from mobilization. Law enforcement authorities continue their work, and society awaits an objective and transparent investigation, as these cases directly impact the reputation of government structures and the trust of Ukrainians in the system that protects their rights and freedoms.