Why Sobriety is the Absolute Rule for Ukraine's 'Shkval' Battalion

An Interview with Anton Chornyi

According to ХВИЛЯ: On January 18, 2026, an interview with Anton Chornyi, an instructor for the 'Shkval' Battalion, was published on Yuriy Romanenko's YouTube channel. In the conversation, Chornyi detailed the principles of service within this unit, which is composed of former prisoners, and outlined the strict regulations in force, particularly regarding a zero-tolerance policy on alcohol.

The Strict Code of the 'Shkval' Battalion

The 'Shkval' Battalion places a special emphasis on adherence to military discipline. Chornyi stressed that alcohol consumption is the foremost and non-negotiable rule for its fighters. This policy is critically important, as maintaining sobriety ensures the safety of not only the soldiers themselves but also the civilians around them.

“We are acutely aware that a soldier is armed, and there are civilians, children nearby... If they were to behave poorly, word would spread incredibly fast through the grapevine,” – Anton Chornyi

Anton Chornyi also emphasized that all instructors and leadership within the battalion possess combat experience.

“In the TV series, prison subculture ultimately wins out. In our case, the army wins because we are the elders... You must set an example: in marksmanship, in courage, in character, and in daily conduct,” – Anton Chornyi

These words underscore the paramount importance of discipline and professionalism in military service, especially in an environment where even a minor lapse can have severe consequences.

Thus, the 'Shkval' Battalion demonstrates a rigorous approach to duty, where the sobriety rule is a foundational principle that contributes to both the successful execution of missions and the safety of everyone in proximity. The unit's formation from former inmates makes its strict internal code a vital component of its operational structure and public trust.

The interview with Anton Chornyi reveals key aspects of the 'Shkval' Battalion's operations, highlighting how discipline and accountability are enforced in a high-stakes military context. Given the unit's unique composition, rules like the absolute ban on alcohol are not merely guidelines but essential tools for maintaining cohesion and preventing incidents. The focus on experienced leadership reflects a drive for military professionalism that is crucial for any effective fighting force.