Eleven young Ukrainians Answered the Call – And Paid a Heavy Price
ODESSA, Ukraine – Driven by a sense of duty and a desire to protect their homeland, eleven young Ukrainian men volunteered for military service following Russia’s full-scale invasion.Now, months later, their stories reveal a harrowing toll: physical wounds, psychological trauma, and, in at least one case, a tragic loss of life. Reuters tracked the fates of these recruits, highlighting the profound cost of freedom for a generation thrust into war.
The group, ranging in age from 18 to 24, represents a wave of volunteers who initially stepped forward with determination. But the reality of combat quickly shattered illusions. One recruit, identified only as “Kuzma,” is haunted by the visceral memories of his brief time in battle. “It was the smell. The smell of gunpowder and corpses,” he recalled.
The paths of ”Kuzma” and Serhiy Broshkov converged again in an Odessa hospital. Broshkov, now reliant on a wheelchair, and “Kuzma,” bearing extensive torso stitches, wryly described themselves as “two invalids among the 18 to 24 year olds.”
Broshkov, despite his injuries, intends to return to the front lines. He remains in contact with other members of the group, including Ivan Storoschuk, also wounded in action.Tragically, Reuters confirmed the suicide of another recruit, reviewing a document with photos matching the deceased’s identity. Donetsk regional police have not responded to inquiries regarding the case.
The physical and emotional scars run deep. broshkov endures chronic leg pain and debilitating nightmares, yet expresses few regrets. “I’m 20 years old. I haven’t really seen anything of life yet,but I went there. If I where offered to do it again, I would do it,” he stated. He believes he acted as any responsible Ukrainian citizen should, defending his home and family.
However, the war’s impact extends beyond the battlefield.Kristina, Broshkov’s wife of 19 years, acknowledges the profound change in her husband. “It’s hard for him. Almost all of his comrades have disappeared,” she said, adding with a heavy heart, “It would have been better if this service contract had never existed. So many young men have died, and these are 18-year-old kids. I think they still have to learn and grow up.”
