The Case of Ruslan Knysh
A 20-year-old veteran, Ruslan Knysh, was denied a bank card replacement at a Kyiv branch of PrivatBank on Beresteyskyi Avenue. The refusal came because staff claimed they could not complete the required identification procedure, as Ruslan had lost all four limbs in combat in the Kharkiv region. Following public backlash, the bank condemned its employees' actions as unacceptable, launched an internal investigation, and issued an apology. PrivatBank also pledged to personally deliver a new card to him and review its internal procedures. This incident highlights the significant barriers veterans with severe disabilities can face when reintegrating into civilian life.
Ruslan Knysh is originally from Selydove in the Donetsk region. He was adopted at age three and ran away from home at 18 due to conflict and violence. He served with the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade, where he sustained five combat injuries. His final injury occurred on October 27 during an assault near New-York (a town in Donetsk Oblast), when he was struck by a kamikaze drone. Ruslan regained consciousness two weeks later in a hospital. He currently lives in a medical facility, undergoing physical therapy, learning to balance on crutches, and preparing lectures for younger soldiers.
Ruslan's Training and Support
Ruslan Knysh is studying to become a junior lieutenant and learning tactical medicine while awaiting a decision on complex prosthetic procedures in the United States. He shares his experiences and knowledge, writing a documentary work about his hometown, Selydove. Ruslan notes:
“For me, the war began back in 2019 when I identified myself as a Ukrainian. I chose the path of struggle because I understood: if we show weakness, this will be our last war of liberation.” - Ruslan Knysh
After the incident with the card, a bank manager reportedly stated, 'When you get prosthetics, then you'll get your card.' It should be noted that PrivatBank later stated its readiness to cover Ruslan Knysh's treatment and prosthetics. Ruslan's mother emphasized:
“You are, first and foremost, a person with a disability; everyone owes you.” - Ruslan's Mother
Ruslan, for his part, is confident in his future capabilities: 'I will be the most valuable robotic complex in the brigade.'
This situation demonstrates not only the difficulties veterans encounter but also the necessity for financial institutions to respond adequately to modern challenges. It is crucial for banks and other organizations to consider the specific needs of people with disabilities, especially those who are victims of war. PrivatBank's subsequent response could set an example for other financial institutions in ensuring inclusivity and support for veterans returning to civilian life.
This incident is not isolated, as similar cases involving veterans and financial institutions have raised significant concerns about the treatment of those who served. For instance, a recent lawsuit involving a missing soldier has also sparked public outrage, highlighting ongoing issues within the banking system regarding veterans' rights and accessibility. To learn more about this troubling trend, see how another case has unfolded in the community regarding a missing soldier.