The war became not only a test of endurance for the entire country, but also a test of the honesty of those who criticize the government and the army. However, as evidenced by a series of revelations, some of the public critics of military actions themselves avoid serving in the Armed Forces, hiding behind dubious bookings and formal positions.
Investigative journalist Maksym Opanasenko, known for his critical articles on the actions of the authorities in the military sphere, found himself at the center of the scandal. According to the publication "Law and Business", he received a reservation from mobilization due to the position of "manager of public relations" in the limited liability company "Euro Tunnels". At the same time, the authorized capital of the company is only $3,000 , and its contribution to the defense capability of the state raises questions.
The documents show that Opanasenko's reservation is valid until May 2025, but there are suspicions that the journalist does not actually perform his duties at the company. The editors of "Law and Business" have promised to conduct their own investigation to find out whether this post is really critical for the country or is just a way to avoid mobilization.
Opanasenko is not the only one whose position causes controversy. The public also came under the crosshairs:
- Yuriy Nikolov is a journalist who often criticizes corruption in the government.
- Yuriy Butusov is the editor of a well-known publication that regularly publishes materials about the Armed Forces.
- Oleksandr Lemyenov is an expert on public administration.
- Mykhailo Zhernakov is the head of the DEJURE Foundation.
- Vitaly Shabunin is the head of the Anti-Corruption Center.
Some of these activists are officially booked because of their work in organizations that criticize the actions of the government or engage in anti-corruption activities. At the same time, questions about the real value of their positions for the defense capability of the state remain open.
Society expects from journalists and public activists, especially those who criticize the actions of the authorities in wartime, not only professionalism, but also personal responsibility. Absence of service in the Armed Forces for formal reasons may cause distrust in their statements and publications.
