Mykola Kulichenko: From Surviving Execution to Facing Draft

Mykola Kulichenko is caught in the crosshairs of Ukraine's combat mobilization, reflecting the tragic yet hopeful narratives of those impacted by the ongoing conflict.

In the early days of Russia's invasion, Mykola Kulichenko endured harrowing circumstances as he was captured and nearly killed by Russian troops. The trauma he suffered included an execution attempt and being buried alive, but a twist of fate allowed him to escape what seemed to be certain death. While his brothers were tragically shot beside him, Kulichenko survived a bullet wound that passed through his cheek, a miracle that did not protect him from Ukraine's military mobilization efforts.

Despite his survival, receiving a draft summons has brought forth deep emotional challenges. Now living in northern Ukraine, he tends to his elderly father and returns to farming, raising ducks and chickens, yet memories of his violent past plague him, leading to sleepless nights filled with flashbacks of that fateful day.

“I wouldn’t change anything by going to the front lines, it would mean nothing,” Kulichenko stated. His experience, one of profound suffering and near loss of life, has led him to believe that his contribution to the military would be insignificant. He questions the purpose of sacrificing his life again after having worked so hard to reclaim it, emphasizing the futility he perceives in the ongoing conflict.

As Ukraine continues its militarization strategy, Mykola Kulichenko's story represents a poignant chapter of survival amidst chaos, highlighting the emotional and physical toll on individuals entwined in the fabric of war.