On May 1, 2025, Ukrainian activist, volunteer, and blogger Serhiy Sternenko reported that he was attacked and wounded, but thankfully, his life is not in danger. The incident unfolded in Ukraine and was confirmed by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), which stated that they had successfully prevented an assassination attempt on Sternenko using firearms.
Sternenko took to his Telegram channel to share the news, stating, "I was attacked. I am wounded." However, he quickly reassured his followers that the threat to his life had been neutralized and that the attacker had been detained on the spot. He expressed his gratitude to the SBU, saying, "Thank you to the SBU for their prompt response. If it weren't for them, I wouldn't be able to write anything anymore. They literally saved my life." This statement highlights the critical role that the security agency played in ensuring his safety during the attack.
According to reports from the SBU, the prompt and professional actions of their officers were instrumental in apprehending the attacker immediately after the incident. The SBU confirmed that the attack was indeed an assassination attempt and provided a photo of the detained suspect, whose face was obscured, with a pistol lying on the ground nearby.
Sternenko later provided further details about his condition, revealing that he had undergone surgery. He stated, "The bullet went straight through. It did not hit anything vital. I am trying to recover." He expressed his relief at the nature of his injury, emphasizing how fortunate he was that it was not more severe.
This latest attack is not the first time Sternenko has faced violence. In 2018, he survived multiple assassination attempts in Odessa, which he attributes to his outspoken criticism of pro-Russian politicians and corruption in Ukraine's law enforcement and judicial systems. During one of those incidents, he fatally wounded an attacker in what he claimed was self-defense. This episode led to lengthy legal proceedings that garnered significant public attention.
In February 2021, Sternenko was sentenced to seven years in prison for kidnapping a local deputy, Sergei Shcherbich. However, after public outcry and protests in his support, the Odesa Court of Appeal later overturned his conviction on armed attack charges and reduced his sentence to a suspended one year for illegal handling of weapons. In December 2023, he reported that the court had closed the case regarding his self-defense claims during the 2018 attack.
Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Sternenko has been actively involved in volunteer efforts to support the Ukrainian military. He has organized fundraising initiatives, including one called "Endless Rusorez," which raised approximately 70 million hryvnias for drones intended to combat Russian reconnaissance UAVs.
The attack on Sternenko has sparked renewed discussions about the safety of activists in Ukraine, especially those who are vocal against corruption and pro-Russian sentiments. Many supporters have rallied around him, expressing their concerns over the increasing threats faced by public figures in the country.
As investigations into the attack continue, the SBU has reiterated its commitment to protecting activists and ensuring that such incidents do not go unpunished. The agency's rapid response in this case has been praised, highlighting the importance of vigilance in safeguarding those who stand up for democratic values and human rights.
While Sternenko recovers from his injuries, he remains a figure of resilience and determination. His experiences underscore the ongoing struggles faced by activists in Ukraine, who continue to fight for justice and accountability in a challenging political landscape. As he recuperates, the public watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution to the investigation and for greater protections for those who dare to speak out.
In a society where the line between activism and danger is increasingly blurred, Sternenko's story serves as a poignant reminder of the risks many are willing to take for their beliefs. His commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense efforts and advocating for transparency in governance continues to inspire many, even in the face of adversity.
