Police Stand By as Military Recruitment Staff Tackle Man in Khmelnytskyi

Altercation in Khmelnytskyi

According to Главком: Military recruitment officials in Khmelnytskyi were seen forcing a man to the ground during an attempted detention, while police officers present did not intervene. The incident was reported by the Telegram channel 'Khmelnytskyi LIVE,' which cited its sources. This event highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Ukraine's mobilization efforts.

Human Rights Concerns During Mobilization

During a session of the Temporary Investigative Commission on February 9, Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets stated that the Khmelnytskyi region is noted for its high mobilization rates. However, he emphasized that Territorial Recruitment Center (TRC) staff lack the legal authority to detain, arrest, or hold Ukrainian citizens, actions which violate both the Constitution of Ukraine and the European Convention on Human Rights.

According to the Ombudsman's Office, 6,127 complaints regarding potential human rights violations during mobilization were received in 2025. This follows over 3,000 complaints in 2024, more than 500 in 2023, and just 18 in 2022. Furthermore, in 2024, pre-trial investigation bodies registered 34 reports concerning actions by TRC employees that bore signs of criminal offenses.

"The Khmelnytskyi region could serve as an example for others, as it is possible to conduct mobilization processes there in compliance with Ukrainian legislation and citizens' rights."

Dmytro Lubinets

The Khmelnytskyi incident underscores the critical need to uphold human rights during mobilization, as such cases can have severe consequences for citizens. The sharp increase in complaints signals an urgent requirement for stricter oversight of TRC personnel and for ensuring the legality of all mobilization procedures. It is vital that negative experiences do not become normalized, and that regions demonstrating lawful practices receive support to serve as a positive model for the entire country.