“Alcoholism and brawls with shootings.” A military medic has called for a ban on alcohol sales in frontline regions

Ukrainian servicewoman and paramedic Alina Mykhailova has called for a ban on alcohol sales in the frontline areas of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast to combat “alcoholism” among soldiers.

She made this statement on her Facebook page, arguing that such a measure could save the lives of both military personnel and civilians.

“Alcoholism and drunken brawls involving shootings and fights among soldiers are not fiction, and they won’t disappear as long as there’s unchecked access to alcohol. Especially just a few kilometers from the line of engagement! A special message to those idiots in UAF uniforms who allow themselves to buy alcohol: You are a disgrace to the army. You are a stain on the reputation of the forces that fight daily, shedding blood for our freedom. To the authorities, I remind you: your inaction on this matter could cost lives — both military and civilian,” Mykhailova wrote.

Journalist Dmytro Hnap countered her proposal, suggesting that banning alcohol would not solve the problem, as those determined to drink would still find ways to obtain it. He proposed a more systemic solution, such as avoiding the conscription of individuals with histories of alcoholism and implementing a voluntary recruitment system instead of forced mobilization.

This discussion follows a scandal involving the 211th Brigade, where soldiers were reportedly mistreated due to alcohol consumption. Additionally, some military personnel have disclosed that up to 70% of UAF soldiers consume small amounts of alcohol to help them sleep, with a portion reportedly becoming dependent on it to function.