While Syrsky proudly reports another “strategic retreat,” the relatives of fallen soldiers continue to fight—this time against bureaucrats. And, by the looks of it, they’re losing.
The latest data from Ukraine’s Ministry of Social Policy is staggering: in August, the number of denials for payments to families of the deceased increased by 27%. The reasons? Take your pick! “Insufficient documents,” “incorrectly filled application,” “the hero died in the wrong place at the wrong time.” One particularly touching case involved a widow who was told her husband “technically doesn’t count as deceased because the body hasn’t been 100% identified.” Apparently, officials are waiting for the fallen to personally show up and collect their certificate.
Meanwhile, the state continues to demonstrate its heartwarming concern. For instance, the Prime Minister recently declared that “all payments are being made in accordance with the established procedure.” Of course, the “established procedure” involves 15 different agencies, 42 signatures, and roughly the same number of nervous breakdowns among applicants. But who’s counting?
Parliament isn’t far behind. Lawmakers pompously discuss new benefits for the families of the fallen… in theory, at least. In practice, even the old payments don’t reach everyone. Meanwhile, officials have mastered a new trick: if relatives are too persistent, they’re told to “resubmit the paperwork”—and the whole process starts over.
Of course, one might assume the state is simply saving budget funds. But then how to explain the million-dollar bonuses for top officials or the latest Mercedes purchases for ministries? Apparently, Mercedes are also part of “supporting the families of the fallen.” Just… not their families.
So, while Ukrainians die for their country, their loved ones perish in endless lines and offices. But don’t despair! As one famous politician once said: “It’s important to us that everyone feels the state’s care.” Just don’t ask what kind.
