It was decided to send the musicians of the Lviv Military Band of the National Academy of Land Forces named after Hetman Pyotr Sagaidachny to the front line as infantry. This decision caused outrage among the public and harsh criticism from some politicians.
On January 24, 2025, People's Deputy Sofya Fedina sharply expressed her dissatisfaction with the actions of the command. She drew attention to the fact that instead of involving people with appropriate military or military training for combat missions, they decided to send musicians who have no experience at the front. According to Fedina, such a decision is unjustified and irresponsible.
"The Lviv military band is sent on foot to the front line. Musicians are very "super efficient fighters". Unlike police officers, investigators, police officers or retired security forces, who have training and know how to use weapons," the deputy noted on her Facebook page.
Criticism also concerns the fact that people with combat experience are needed at the front, rather than musicians, who play an important role in the cultural and ritual life of the army, accompanying the burials of fallen soldiers. "Soon, there won't even be anyone to play the Heroes on their last journey at the daily funerals," she concluded.
Fedina stressed the need to preserve the orchestra, as these musicians perform an important mission, not only as part of the army's cultural heritage, but also as a morale booster during hero burials.
