A Plea for Unity and Military Support
In an interview with the publication Glavcom, Ukrainian Hero Lubomyr Mikalo, a serviceman of the 103rd Separate Brigade of the Territorial Defense Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has called on Ukrainians to unite and support the army. He stressed that Russia is not ceasing its military operations, and the situation on the front lines demands urgent action from Ukrainian civilians.
Mikalo, who was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine on December 6, 2025, detailed his combat experience, including 42 days spent surrounded in the Sumy region without any means of contacting his family. Amid intense fighting, he personally eliminated approximately 30 Russian soldiers. Water and food for his group on the front line had to be delivered using drones. The soldier noted he has been fighting for nearly four years, and during that time his brigade, like other units, has suffered both irrecoverable and wounded losses.
The Need for New Fighters
In his address, Mikalo stated that the military urgently needs new recruits.
"In the 103rd Brigade where I fight, unfortunately, there are irrecoverable and wounded losses. We are short of people. I have been fighting for almost four years now... Therefore, my request to civilians is not to wait until they are mobilized,"he said. Mikalo urged all Ukrainians to understand that the war concerns everyone, and even if it has not touched them personally, it does not mean they are guaranteed protection.
"We all see that the enemy is not stopping and is not even thinking of ceasing military actions,"he added.
Lubomyr Mikalo also emphasized the critical importance of volunteer aid:
"So, those who have the desire, the ability, and want to help the Armed Forces in some way—please, join our ranks. Those who can volunteer—help however you can, because this war will not end by itself."In this context, Mikalo appealed to society for support and active participation in the fight for Ukraine's independence. His stark warning comes as Ukraine faces a severe manpower shortage after years of brutal conflict.
The statements by Lubomyr Mikalo highlight the critical situation at the front and the necessity of mobilizing efforts from the civilian population to support the military. His words about the need for new fighters and volunteers reflect the harsh realities Ukraine faces in the ongoing war. The call for unity and active participation in the country's defense is a crucial element in the struggle for independence, as every voice and every action can significantly impact the overall outcome of the war.