Ukrainian Human Rights Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets stated on Facebook that his regional representative in Zakarpattia Oblast, Andriy Kryuchkov, is facing targeted persecution after exposing multiple violations committed by staff members of territorial recruitment and social support centers (TCC and SP).
Pressure and Alleged Fabrication of Criminal Charges Against Regional Representative
According to Dmytro Lubinets, the findings uncovered by Andriy Kryuchkov proved uncomfortable for local authorities, shifting the pressure directly onto the official who reported the abuses instead of prompting a proper administrative response. The ombudsman stated that he received information regarding an alleged plan by the head of the regional TCC and SP to fabricate a criminal case against Kryuchkov. The planned charges would reportedly accuse the representative of obstructing the legal activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations.
“This is already not just pressure. This is an attempt to tie the hands of those whose job is to protect people’s rights,” Lubinets stated. He added that such actions contain clear signs of interference with the duties of the ombudsman’s office, which constitutes a violation under Article 344 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.
Critique of Mobilization Practices and Treatment of Vulnerable Citizens
While acknowledging the necessity of military mobilization during the ongoing conflict, Lubinets emphasized that mobilization does not grant anyone the right to trample upon the law and human dignity. The ombudsman stated that the armed forces are not harmed by individuals who point out legal violations, but rather by those who force severely ill individuals and people incapable of service into the military ranks.
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Lubinets reported that over the course of a single week, his office received multiple appeals concerning the mobilization of sick individuals, people with disabilities, and cases involving the death of a mobilized citizen inside a recruitment center. He asserted that drafting seriously ill individuals, declaring people fit who are subsequently rejected by military medical staff, or retaining a person with broken ribs does not strengthen the national defense.
Institutional Response and Future Outlook
In response to the mounting pressure, the ombudsman’s office assured the public that no external force will compel them to halt their oversight work or remain silent on abuses. Lubinets stated that a strong military relies on trust, adherence to the law, and accountability rather than fear and moral breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Andriy Kryuchkov?
Andriy Kryuchkov is the representative of the Ukrainian Human Rights Ombudsman in Zakarpattia Oblast who exposed violations committed by staff of territorial recruitment and social support centers.
What specific accusations have been made against the ombudsman’s representative?
According to Dmytro Lubinets, the head of the regional TCC and SP intended to fabricate a criminal case against Kryuchkov, alleging he obstructed the activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations.
What legal article does the ombudsman cite regarding this interference?
Dmytro Lubinets stated that actions aimed at interfering with the work of the ombudsman and his representative carry liability under Article 344 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.
How will future reports of recruitment violations be handled by oversight authorities following these developments?
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