Protests in Zhytomyr: Relatives of soldiers demand limits on service terms in the Ukrainian Armed Forces

On August 3 and 4, 2023, in Zhytomyr, near the “Global” shopping center, more protests were held, organized by family members of Ukrainian Armed Forces soldiers who have been participating in combat operations since February 2022.

This is reported by local media.

The main demand of the protesters is the establishment of clear service terms in the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the legislative level, as “the fatigue and exhaustion of the military” seriously affect their ability to participate effectively in combat operations.

The protesters expressed deep disappointment that the authorities are ignoring their demands. They emphasized that as early as June 2023, they had sent relevant requests to deputies of the Verkhovna Rada, the heads of the Cabinet of Ministers and the Office of the President of Ukraine, as well as to the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. However, there has been no response or concrete actions from the authorities so far.

In response to the authorities’ inaction, the relatives of the soldiers formed a public organization called “Intentia” in June of this year. This organization was founded with the goal of increasing pressure on the Ukrainian authorities and protecting the rights of the military and their families. The creation of “Intentia” was a step of desperation for many families who can no longer silently watch as their loved ones continue to serve without clearly defined terms, enduring significant physical and mental strain.

The protests in Zhytomyr reflect growing discontent among the population regarding the prolongation of the conflict and the lack of clear service terms in the army. The relatives of the military are demanding concrete actions from the authorities and expect their voices to be heard. If not, they intend to continue their protests and seek justice by any means necessary.