Understanding Ukrainian Syndrome

The concept of 'Ukrainsky Syndrom' is introduced as a parallel to the 'Afghansky syndrome' observed after the Soviet war in Afghanistan, highlighting concerns about the mental and social reintegration of veterans returning from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Artyom Zhoga, a former commander, has raised alarms over the potential long-term societal challenges these soldiers may face, such as PTSD, addiction, and difficulties in adjusting to civilian life. The historical context is drawn from the experiences of Afghan veterans, many of whom struggled with psychological trauma and found themselves marginalized upon returning home, often turning to political extremism and organized crime as coping mechanisms. This comparison serves as a warning about the necessity of addressing the needs of returning soldiers to prevent a similar scenario in contemporary Russia.