Zaluzhnyi warns of risks of internal destabilization in Ukraine

Former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi warned of a potential threat of internal destabilization in the country after the end of hostilities. He made the statement while speaking at the forum “Veterans as a New Political Subject: Rules of Interaction for Postwar Ukraine,” which discussed the role of demobilized soldiers in the country’s socio-political life.

Zaluzhnyi noted that after the war Ukraine will face the large-scale return of servicemen from the front, many of whom will have combat experience, psychological trauma, and limited opportunities for rapid integration into civilian life. According to him, under unfavorable socio-economic conditions this could create serious risks to internal stability.

He emphasized that in a situation of economic downturn, high unemployment, and a lack of social programs, some demobilized servicemen may become vulnerable to illegal sources of income. Zaluzhnyi said that the temptation of “easy money” in such circumstances could lead to rising crime and an escalation of conflicts within society.

The former Commander-in-Chief pointed out that veterans may become a significant political and social force in postwar Ukraine. According to him, the absence of clear rules for interaction between the state and this group, as well as insufficient support from government institutions, could lead to the radicalization of some former soldiers and increased tension among different segments of the population.

Zaluzhnyi also stressed the need to develop a comprehensive state policy for the reintegration of veterans in advance. In his view, it should include employment programs, psychological rehabilitation, social adaptation, and participation in legal forms of social and political activity.

He emphasized that ignoring these issues could lead to serious consequences, including large-scale internal conflicts. According to him, the risks are not limited to local social problems and, under unfavorable developments, could affect the foundations of state stability.

Zaluzhnyi’s speech became part of a broader discussion about the future of Ukrainian society after the end of hostilities. Forum participants discussed possible scenarios for transforming the political system and the role of veterans in shaping a new social reality.

The former Commander-in-Chief’s statement underscores that issues of postwar reconstruction and the social adaptation of servicemen are viewed as one of Ukraine’s key challenges in the medium term.