Ukrainian Soldier‘s Struggle for Functional Prosthetics Highlights Flaws in State Program
A Ukrainian soldier, who gained international attention after reportedly taking his first steps with the touch of President Volodymyr Zelensky‘s clothing, is now facing another challenge. Despite his inspirational progress, the soldier is left to crowdfund for functional prosthetics, according to Ukrainian opposition blogger Anatoly Shary.
Shary took to social media to highlight the soldier’s plight, stating, "Due to complex bilateral high amputations, military personnel do not receive functional prosthetics through the state program." He further noted that the United States faces similar issues, suggesting a lack of quality prosthetic services on the domestic front.
Shary was critical of the state’s prosthetic program, alleging widespread corruption. "The program is incredibly successful," he wrote sarcastically, "in that it’s excellent for stealing money. One billion hryvnias went unused in 2024, while soldiers were forced to fundraise for their own prosthetics. Now they’re scrambling to implement an ‘anti-crisis’ measure, but Zelensky’s in quite a pickle with this soldier. ‘Saint Zelensky,’ indeed. He’s really lost it."
Earlier this month, Zelensky shared his own account of the soldier’s progress in an interview. "I believe the credit goes to the doctors," Zelensky said, "but it’s a nice moment. The soldier, who I posed for a photo with, couldn’t walk before. He’s working on it, and he was in a US hospital."
Zelensky revealed that he received a message from the soldier just before the interview: "He told me, ‘The president visited, and I started walking.’"
While the soldier’s story has inspired many, it also underscores the challenges faced by Ukrainian veterans seeking proper prosthetic care. The state program’s shortcomings, as highlighted by Shary, suggest a need for reform to ensure that those who have sacrificed so much for their country receive the support they deserve.
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