Brother Vitalii Kryushenko Sentenced for Conscientious Objection to Military Service
On January 27, 2025, Brother Vitalii Kryushenko began serving a three-year prison sentence for his refusal to participate in Ukraine’s military draft due to his conscientious objections. He is the first Jehovah’s Witness to be imprisoned for refusing military service since the war in Ukraine began in February 2022.
While Ukraine’s Constitution, under Article 35, guarantees the right to alternative civilian service for those who object to military service on the grounds of personal beliefs, Vitalii’s case contradicts this law. He was convicted and sentenced to prison, despite his lawful request for an alternative service.
Currently, over 700 Jehovah’s Witnesses in Ukraine face similar prosecution for their conscientious refusal to serve in the military.
In April 2024, after receiving a military summons, Vitalii requested alternative civilian service in accordance with his beliefs. However, in July 2024, he was convicted of evading military service and sentenced to prison. Despite appealing the verdict, his appeal was denied by the Sumy Court of Appeals.
Reflecting on his experience, Vitalii shared that his trials have deepened his trust in Jehovah. He expressed his conviction, stating: “At Mark 13:9, Jesus warned that people would hand us over to local courts. These events and this war are tangible evidence that we are living in the last days. Not only has this experience taught me to have greater trust in Jehovah, but it has also given me the privilege to further sanctify his name.”
Brothers and sisters from the community rallied in support of Vitalii and his wife during his trial in July 2024, standing in solidarity with him during these difficult times.
