How Has War Transformed Ordinary Ukrainians?

The ongoing war in Ukraine, which escalated with the Russian invasion on 24 February 2022, has transformed the lives of countless civilians into soldiers almost overnight. Many who had previously never held weapons took up arms to defend their homeland. As the conflict continues, the toll on these individuals is profound, with stories emerging of their personal transformations and the emotional challenges they face. This article explores the experiences of Ukrainian soldiers who were once civilians, highlighting their journeys and the impact of the war on their identities.

Last updated: 29 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As of late 2023, the war in Ukraine remains unresolved, with ongoing combat and significant humanitarian challenges. The initial wave of patriotic fervour has given way to a grim reality where many civilians have been conscripted into military service. The Ukrainian government continues to call upon its citizens, particularly men aged 25 to 65, to serve, while women can enlist under contractual agreements. The emotional and psychological toll of warfare is evident among these soldiers, as many grapple with their new identities forged in the crucible of conflict.

Key takeaways

The war has forced many civilians, often inexperienced with weapons, to become soldiers.
Emotional and psychological changes among soldiers reflect the profound impact of war on their identities.
Conscription policies remain stringent, with men aged 25 to 65 required to serve.

Timeline: how we got here

The war in Ukraine has developed through several key phases since its onset in February 2022:

24 February 2022: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, prompting immediate military and civilian mobilisations.
March 2022: Many civilians begin enlisting; conscription policies are enforced.
December 2024: A significant transition occurs as soldiers reflect on their past lives and the emotional scars of combat.
Late 2023: The war continues with no clear resolution in sight, and the psychological toll on soldiers remains a pressing concern.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent reports have highlighted the ongoing struggles of Ukrainian soldiers, particularly those who were once civilians. As the conflict persists, their stories reflect deep emotional changes and the challenges of reintegration into civilian life after service.

What was already established

It was previously understood that the war had transformed civilian life dramatically, with many individuals stepping into roles they never envisioned for themselves. The emotional and psychological effects of combat have been documented, revealing a complex relationship between personal identity and military service.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The war has led to increased energy prices and a significant influx of refugees into the UK, impacting housing and community resources. Ongoing support for Ukraine remains a focal point for UK foreign policy, influencing public sentiment and economic considerations.

Businesses and jobs

UK businesses are adjusting to supply chain disruptions caused by the conflict. The war has affected industries reliant on Ukrainian exports, such as agriculture and manufacturing, and businesses are adapting to changing market dynamics.

Policy and regulation

The UK government has maintained strong support for Ukraine, including military aid and sanctions against Russia. Upcoming policy discussions will likely focus on continued military assistance and humanitarian support for displaced populations.

Numbers that matter

Over 100,000: Estimated number of Ukrainian civilians who have enlisted in the military since February 2022.
65: The upper age limit for conscription of men in Ukraine.
2: Years of captivity endured by many soldiers, such as Serhii, raising awareness of the psychological impact of war.

Definitions and jargon buster

Conscription: Mandatory enlistment in the military service.
FPV (first person view): A method of piloting drones from the perspective of the operator.
NGO: Non-governmental organisation, typically focused on humanitarian or developmental issues.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

The immediate focus remains on the battlefield, with soldiers continuing to face daily risks. For those returning home, support systems for reintegration and mental health will be crucial.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the war drags on, the psychological impact on soldiers and civilians alike will need to be addressed more comprehensively. Policies surrounding veteran care and mental health support will be essential as the conflict continues.

Signals to watch

Changes in government policy regarding conscription and military support.
Reports on the psychological well-being of returning soldiers.
The evolving situation on the battlefield, which may affect civilian enlistment rates.

Practical guidance

Do

Support mental health initiatives for veterans and soldiers.
Stay informed on the developments of the war and its impact on the UK.
Engage in community support efforts for refugees and displaced individuals.

Don’t

Avoid making assumptions about the experiences of soldiers returning from conflict.
Do not underestimate the psychological toll of warfare.
Steer clear of politicising the experiences of those affected by the war.

Checklist

Understand the conscription laws in Ukraine and their implications.
Familiarise yourself with support resources available for veterans.
Monitor news updates regarding the war and its global effects.
Engage in discussions about the importance of mental health in the military.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation in Ukraine remains fluid, with significant uncertainties regarding the future of the conflict. The psychological effects of war are complex and vary from individual to individual. It is crucial to approach the narratives of returning soldiers with empathy and an understanding of their unique experiences.

Bottom line

The transformation of civilians into soldiers in Ukraine illustrates the profound impact of war on personal identity and societal structures. As the conflict continues, the focus must shift toward supporting those who have served and addressing the long-term consequences of their experiences.

FAQs

What led to the transformation of civilians into soldiers in Ukraine?

The Russian invasion on 24 February 2022 prompted many civilians to enlist in the military, driven by a sense of patriotism and the need to defend their homeland.

What challenges do returning soldiers face in Ukraine?

Returning soldiers often struggle with reintegration into civilian life, dealing with psychological trauma, and finding their place in society after service.

How is the UK supporting Ukraine during the war?

The UK has provided military aid, humanitarian assistance, and support for displaced individuals, maintaining a strong stance against Russia.