Civilians to Soldiers: Ukraine's New Reality

Russian aerial attacks commencing on February 24, 2022, abruptly turned tens of thousands of Ukrainian civilians into soldiers. Many who had never handled a weapon were compelled to take up arms. As the conflict has persisted over four years, initial patriotic fervor has subsided, leading to further conscription.

Men aged 25-65 are subject to open-ended service, while women can enlist on a contract basis. Nine soldiers recounted their experiences to the BBC, detailing their transition from civilian life to military service and the war's impact.

Olena, formerly a nightclub administrator in Prague, returned to Ukraine in December 2024 to become a pilot. She notes a shift in her priorities, valuing her comrades' lives above personal ambitions. The silence following news of losses, she states, is often more difficult than active combat.

Oleh, a publishing graduate and former NGO worker, initially felt fear but joined the army in March 2022. He describes a constant internal struggle, feeling trapped within his own mind. The war has fundamentally altered his perspective on helping others, emphasizing deeds over words.

Anastasia, who became a drone operator in March 2025, found being a woman in the armed forces challenging, requiring constant self-validation. She now cherishes simple joys like family and food, having gained a clearer sense of life's values.

Roman, a bio-engineer before the invasion, volunteered as a medic and was later mobilized. He now operates drones and utilizes his medical skills from northern Ukraine, focusing on the present moment and the eventual reconstruction efforts.

Viktor, who had previously served, returned to Ukraine on the invasion's first day, driven by a sense of duty despite his fear. He reflects on the profound changes war has wrought, noting the loss of most of his initial comrades.

Serhii, a civilian government worker, was captured during the siege of Azovstal steelworks and held for over two years. This experience, marked by a feeling of doom, led to a deep reassessment of his values. He is now undergoing rehabilitation.

Kyrylo, whose pre-war life included a wife, children, and a home, had his life upended by the conflict. He endured weeks of captivity in Russia, witnessing the abuse of fellow soldiers. Upon returning to freedom, he experienced the difficult reality of feeling like 'nobody' after his fighting days concluded.