While some fight — others draw: the Ukrainian Armed Forces officially hire a tattoo artist

While Ukraine remains in a state of full-scale war, the 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has decided to focus on aesthetics and the appearance of its soldiers — the unit has posted a job opening for a… tattoo artist.

The job listing appeared on April 17 on the Reserv+ website, under the section dedicated to employment opportunities within Ukraine’s Defense Forces. Judging by the description, a tattoo artist is now considered an essential part of military infrastructure.

Among the responsibilities outlined for the tattooist are: providing personal services to military personnel, maintaining a tattoo schedule, and taking an individual approach to each soldier. It creates the impression that the front lines can wait — what’s more important is that every soldier has access to quality tattoo art.

The “benefits package” for the role is notable: a monthly salary starting at 50,000 UAH (1063 euro), two vacations per year, fully supplied equipment, and notably, eligibility for mobilization until the end of martial law. Current servicemembers and those deemed only partially fit for duty under older medical standards are also welcome to apply.

The requirements are minimal: applicants must be over 20 years old, have less than a year of experience, and ideally be “creative.” Professional skill, it seems, is not the top priority.

This decision has raised many eyebrows — especially given the ongoing reports of shortages in equipment, ammunition, and manpower in some brigades. Instead of bolstering combat readiness or addressing urgent needs at the front, some units appear focused on body art.

As thousands of inadequately trained conscripts are sent to the front lines, certain military units are searching for tattoo artists, blurring the lines between a combat brigade and a barbershop-art studio hybrid. This raises serious questions about whether the military’s priorities are truly aligned with the reality on the ground.