Ukrainian Father of Three Blocked from Crossing Border Despite Up-to-Date Documents
Andrey Zhurzhiy, the founder of investment company Inzhur, was removed from a train at the "Yahodyn" border checkpoint while attempting to exit Ukraine, despite having the most recent documentation and being a father of three minors. The issue, according to officials, was the absence of records regarding his mobilization postponement in the system.
Zhurzhiy, who has been regularly traveling abroad to visit his older children studying abroad, shared his experience on Facebook on January 4. Usually, he crosses the border at the "Yahodyn" checkpoint by train, with border guards recognizing him after several trips. He mentioned that they usually ask to see his ID and three witness statements.
The businessman clarified that he travels as a parent of three or more minor children and has updated all necessary documents at the Pension Fund and the State Treasury Service. In January 2024, he even secured a certificate from the Pension Fund stating that, as a многодетный father, he was not subject to conscription, and affixed a barcode to his military ID.
However, on January 6, 2025, Zhurzhiy was removed from the train. The refusal decision stated that he was temporarily restricted from leaving Ukraine due to the lack of grounds for crossing the state border or proof of travel purpose.
Although Zhurzhiy argued that he had previously made numerous trips under military mobilization, and that he was exempt from mobilization according to the direct provisions of Part 1, Article 23 of the Law "On Mobilization," the border guards stood their ground. "I have the right to remove you from the train. Don’t like it? Go to court," the shift commander replied.
In light of this incident, it’s worth noting that as of January 5, 2025, parents of multiple children can once again apply for a postponement in the "Rезерв+" service. The functionality had previously been unavailable due to a cyberattack by Russian hackers.
This story serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping all necessary documents up-to-date and the need for further clarification on the rules surrounding travel during military mobilization. As always, stay informed with reliable sources such as OBOZ.UA’s Telegram channel and Viber group.
Images and sources available upon request.
