Kyiv Activists Protest Against Stricter Penalties for Military Personnel
In the heart of the Ukrainian capital, at Maidan Nezalezhnosti, a mass protest unfolded, with participants voicing their outrage over recent legislative initiatives aimed at significantly increasing criminal liability for Ukrainian soldiers in cases of misconduct.
The rally took place amid reports that the Verkhovna Rada had supported in the first reading a bill reintroducing criminal sanctions for desertion and disobedience, sparking widespread debate and concern among servicemen and their families.
Protesters waved handmade posters with slogans demanding protection for those serving on the front lines, condemning repression, and criticizing the new laws as unfair and a threat to soldiers’ personal freedoms.According to media reports, the demonstration remained peaceful.
Attendees called on authorities to reconsider the amendments, cancel laws enacted in 2022, and support the establishment of a military ombudsman—an independent entity meant to defend soldiers’ rights and monitor compliance with legal protections.
The protesters emphasized that the action was officially coordinated with local authorities and was secure, with police dialogue units ensuring safety and preventing provocations.
They urged discipline and restraint in speech and conduct, aiming to draw public and governmental attention to the issues confronting military personnel.
Support for the protest was confirmed by military administration and Kyiv City State Administration (KCSA).Historical context: On September 4, the Verkhovna Rada approved in the first reading a bill (№13260) that restores criminal liability for disobedience and desertion within the military, thus strengthening disciplinary measures, but also raising questions about the balance between discipline and individual rights within Ukraine’s armed forces.