In Kryvyi Rig, Ukraine, 68-year-old Tetiana Zaitseva is mourning the loss of her son Artem, who died after being detained at a territorial recruitment center. The incident occurred on the night of May 4-5, 2024, when Artem was taken by police and soldiers. Zaitseva brought him clothes the next day, only to be told upon returning home that her son had died.
Official Cause Disputed
Authorities attribute Artem's death to heart disease, but Zaitseva believes he was beaten. A second medical examination, conducted 16 months later at her request, revealed non-fatal injuries including broken ribs sustained at the recruitment center. A murder case was initially closed but reopened in February after her appeal.
Rising Violence in Mobilization
Artem's case is part of a broader pattern of violence linked to Ukraine's mandatory military service, introduced after Russia's 2022 invasion. While most call-ups proceed peacefully, reports of violent drafting and beatings have increased since 2023. AFP has documented at least 30 deaths since September 2023, including suicides and beatings. Hundreds of violent arrests by recruiters have been recorded, with videos showing men being forcibly taken off the streets.
Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has promised reforms, and a front-line officer called for police-led mobilization and penalties for corruption. Cases of officials issuing draft exemptions for bribes have further eroded trust.
Exploitation by Propaganda
Artem's story has been amplified by Russian media and Ukrainian figures accused of political motives, including blogger Myroslav Oleshko. Pollster Oleksii Antypovych noted that over 70% of Ukrainians are dissatisfied with recruiters, warning that anger could grow without changes. Zaitseva regrets her tragedy being exploited but insists on justice, saying she cannot stay silent.
Standing by her son's grave near her home, she whispered: "For the sake of my son and his memory, I would have preferred he died contributing to victory."
