Yevgeny Lomskiy, a war veteran who dedicated nine years to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and lost a leg during combat against Russian invaders, is forced to ask for food from passersby on the main street of the capital — Khreshchatyk.
His challenging situation was reported by the international publication Al-Jazeera in an article addressing the issues faced by war veterans in Ukraine regarding proper assistance.
"I served in the army for 9 years, and now I’m starving. After my injury and discharge, I haven’t received any payments from the state," says Yevgeny, who is 48 years old.
The veteran moves on crutches, holding a sign that reads "I’m starving," and collects funds for food right on Khreshchatyk. Previously, he worked as a steelworker in Mariupol, but in 2015 he chose to volunteer at the front lines. There, he became a sapper, and his life changed forever on September 17, 2023, when he stepped on a landmine and lost his leg.
Currently, Yevgeny struggles to secure the necessary treatment and a decent life due to bureaucratic obstacles in the Ministry of Defense. He has no family, and for many years the army has been his substitute. He emphasizes that similar situations are faced by many of his fellow soldiers, who are unable to receive the proper support from the state.