President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday appointed Olha Reshetylova as Ukraine’s first military ombudsman. 

The position was created to provide soldiers and their families with a formal mechanism to report rights violations and to improve accountability within the armed forces.

Reshetylova’s appointment comes after growing calls for military accountability following allegations of abuse within Ukraine’s 211th Pontoon Bridge Brigade. Reports included mistreatment of subordinates, such as tying soldiers to wooden crosses, leading to public backlash and demands for reform.

The ombudsman will be responsible for investigating complaints, offering legal assistance, conducting inspections, and addressing rights violations. 

Reshetylova will also collaborate with Ukraine’s Defense Ministry and civil society organizations to draft legislation that defines the powers and operational framework of the role. 

Reshetylova co-founded the Media Initiative for Human Rights, which investigates war crimes and promotes government reforms, and she has been actively involved in supporting Ukraine’s military through civilian-led initiatives. Zelensky praised her as a capable and experienced leader, emphasizing her dedication to human rights and institutional reform.

The ombudsman’s office is expected to begin operations in early 2025.