Ukraine’s Wounded Veterans Find Healing and Community Through Adaptive Sports

As the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, a growing number of veterans are turning to adaptive sports and community programs to cope with physical and psychological wounds. From climbing gyms to veteran hubs, these initiatives offer a path toward recovery, reintegration, and a renewed sense of purpose.

The Scale of the Challenge

The conflict with Russia has resulted in a significant number of casualties, leaving tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers wounded. By early 2025, approximately 95,000 amputations had been performed on veterans since the start of the invasion [1]. While Ukraine does not publicly disclose the total number of wounded, President Volodymyr Zelensky estimated the figure at 370,000 in late 2024 [3]. Many veterans are visibly present in Kyiv and other cities, often seen in military fatigues and utilizing mobility aids.

Finding Solace in Physical Activity

Recognizing the necessitate for support, organizations and individuals are creating spaces and programs tailored to the unique needs of wounded veterans. Climbing gyms, like one in Kyiv, have turn into popular venues for veterans to challenge themselves physically and mentally. Oleg Khmylevskyi, a 38-year-old veteran who lost his right leg in combat, describes the experience as “scary, engaging, it’s adrenaline, it’s an unusual kind of physical exertion” [2].

Oleksandr Pedan, founder of the “Second Wind” club, emphasizes the importance of adrenaline-inducing activities for veterans’ recovery. “Military veterans after combat too need adrenaline, and heights give you adrenaline,” he explains [2]. These activities help veterans experience “alive, energetic, athletic” and serve as a “powerful tool for rehabilitation and reintegration.”

Veteran Hubs and Community Support

Ukraine is establishing “veteran hubs” that provide a range of services, including co-working spaces, event areas, childcare facilities, and gyms. These hubs aim to facilitate the transition back to civilian life and foster a sense of community. Veterans find strength in connecting with others who understand their experiences. Roman Govrylyak, who lost his leg in a mine explosion, describes the camaraderie within the veteran community as a “great circle” where he doesn’t need to explain his experiences [3].

Reintegration into the Workforce

Employment is a significant concern for many veterans. A survey indicated that three in four veterans worry about finding a job after discharge [2]. However, Veterans Affairs Minister Natalia Kalmykova notes that veterans are becoming “a particularly valuable group in the labour market” [3], as they possess valuable experience and are unlikely to be mobilized. Up to 60 percent of veterans return to their previous workplaces after leaving the army [3].

A Positive Outlook

Despite the challenges, many veterans maintain a positive outlook. Khmylevskyi jokingly refers to his leg amputation as “the jackpot among potential misfortunes,” emphasizing his ability to adapt and continue living a fulfilling life [2]. Climbing instructor Alina Bilyakova praises the veterans’ willpower and resolve, noting that they often “do much more than people without disabilities” [3].