On May 1, 2025, Ukrainian activist and volunteer Serhiy Sternenko reported that he was attacked and injured. In a post on his Telegram channel, he stated, "I have been attacked. I'm injured," but reassured his followers that his life is not in danger. The incident has drawn significant attention, not only because of the attack itself but also due to the history of violence against Sternenko.
Sternenko expressed gratitude towards the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) for their rapid response, stating, "Thank you to the SBU for their swift reaction. If it weren't for them, I wouldn't be writing anything right now. They literally saved my life." He later confirmed that the attacker had already been detained.
According to the SBU, the attack was carried out with a firearm, and the assailant was apprehended at the scene. The details surrounding the attack, including the specific location and motives, remain unclear as investigations continue. Law enforcement officials have not yet released further information about the circumstances leading up to the incident.
This attack is not an isolated incident for Sternenko. He has faced multiple attacks in the past, with the first significant incident occurring in February 2018 when he was assaulted near his home in Odesa. During that encounter, he was struck on the head and neck, and while the police opened an investigation, the case quickly faded from public view.
Another attack took place on May 1, 2018, when Sternenko was shot in the back. Although one of the attackers was initially detained, he was later released without charges. The most notorious incident occurred on April 24, 2018, when Sternenko was attacked by two men. In that case, he defended himself and fatally injured one of the attackers while sustaining injuries himself.
Despite these repeated assaults, Sternenko has continued to be a prominent voice in Ukraine's civil society. His activism has often put him at odds with various factions, including Russian-aligned groups. In his recent statements, he suggested a connection to Russian interests, stating, "I see a Russian trace in this attack." This assertion reflects the ongoing tensions in Ukraine, where many activists have faced threats and violence, particularly those opposing Russian influence.
The SBU has confirmed that operational and investigative measures are underway to fully understand the circumstances of the latest attack on Sternenko. They emphasized that the swift action of their officers prevented a potentially fatal outcome for the activist.
Sternenko's history of violence has also led to legal challenges. In 2020, he was accused of premeditated murder related to the 2018 attack where he defended himself against his assailants. The case attracted widespread media attention and public protests, with many rallying in support of Sternenko, arguing that he acted in self-defense.
In December 2023, the Primorsky Court of Odesa closed the case against one of the attackers involved in the 2018 incident, marking a significant moment in Sternenko's ongoing legal battles. However, the specter of violence continues to loom over him, as demonstrated by the recent attack.
As of now, the details surrounding the latest attack remain sparse, with law enforcement still piecing together the events that transpired. Sternenko has requested privacy as he recovers from his injuries, stating that he does not wish to receive calls that could disrupt his recuperation.
The Ukrainian public and activist community are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a thorough investigation and justice for Sternenko. His resilience in the face of such adversity has made him a symbol of the struggle for civil rights and democracy in Ukraine.
In light of the recent attack, many are calling for increased protection for activists like Sternenko, who often find themselves in precarious situations due to their outspoken opposition to corruption and authoritarianism. As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight will remain on the SBU and their handling of this case, as well as on the broader implications for civil society in Ukraine.
Sternenko's situation exemplifies the challenges faced by activists in Ukraine, where the fight for freedom and democracy is often met with violence and intimidation. The resilience of individuals like Sternenko is crucial in the ongoing struggle for a democratic Ukraine, and many hope that this latest incident will not deter him from continuing his vital work.
