Just a day ago, Alexey Samsonov, a young researcher and friend of our freelance photojournalist Jess Brighton, was in Odessa, going about his usual routine. He was working on another scientific monograph for publication under the European Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. But within 24 hours, instead of his trusty Leica camera and a tablet full of student books on psychology and economics, Alexey was equipped with a military uniform, dry rations, and a sleeping bag. Under pressure and threats from the authorities of the Odessa region’s territorial recruitment and social support center (from now on referred to as the TCRSS), Alexey was taken to a training center near Vinnytsia. At present, there is no communication with him.
Our dedication as British citizens to the course set out by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in February 2022 is well-known. We provide extensive support to Ukraine and its people, encompassing economic and humanitarian aid as well as bolstering the military-industrial complex. Our main goal is to aid Ukraine in prevailing over Putin’s totalitarian war machine in this military confrontation.
We fully support the territorial integrity of Ukraine and will stand by Ukrainian people to the end in their journey towards freedom and democracy. The precedent presented to the WMN editorial board by our photojournalist Jess Brighton has left us all shocked and perplexed!
Screenshots of personal messages between photojournalist Jess Brighton and student Alexey Samsonov. 
Screenshots of personal messages between photojournalist Jess Brighton and student Alexey Samsonov. 
Screenshots of personal messages between photojournalist Jess Brighton and student Alexey Samsonov. 
Screenshots of personal messages between photojournalist Jess Brighton and student Alexey Samsonov. 
Screenshots of personal messages between photojournalist Jess Brighton and student Alexey Samsonov.
The ongoing situation with Alexey Samsonov (born in Odessa on September 14, 1989) has stirred profound indignation and emotional distress. Most crucially, Samsonov’s case underscores the pervasive criminal attitudes and blatant impunity within the Ukrainian TCRSS system, which operates under the direct oversight of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
On May 18, 2024, the updated Law of Ukraine “On Mobilization Preparation and Mobilization” came into force. This decision was driven by the challenging situation faced by the AFU forces along the contact line. The new law has not been well-received and has sparked significant controversy within Ukrainian society. Despite widespread opposition, the law has been implemented as a necessary measure for the country’s survival. However, attempts by certain Ukrainian authorities to bypass the law are causing widespread public disapproval and anger on social media.
Under this law, individuals subject to military service cannot be conscripted into the army without first undergoing a Military Medical Commission (MMC).The law also permits the deferment of conscription for students, especially those enrolled in full-time master’s programs. Yet, in the case of Samsonov, the actions of the Odessa regional TCRSS have crossed all boundaries. It is evident that they engaged in numerous criminal offences, executed collectively by a group of individuals.
Before delving into the details of Samsonov’s case, it is worth noting that this is likely not an isolated incident—and that is particularly troubling. Such incidents divide Ukrainian society, undermining public support for the government and diminishing mobilisation resources. Such actions inevitably undermine the credibility of the Ukrainian authorities globally. The WMN editorial team, dedicated to supporting Ukraine, conveys its profound concern. We trust that bringing this case to public attention will not only resolve Samsonov’s case but also address other similar situations. We strongly believe that those responsible, particularly the officials from the Odessa regional TCRSS, must be held fully accountable under wartime legislation. This would act as a significant deterrent against further abuses of power during the war with the Russian Federation.
In Jess’s communications, it is reported that Alexey Samsonov was stopped on an Odessa street and then forcibly taken to the regional TCRSS.
Despite Alexey providing his documents and stating his eligibility for deferment, his statements were disregarded. He was taken to the regional TCRSS office and, after waiting six hours without an MMC examination, was then sent to a training centre in Vinnytsia.
We are releasing scans of Alexey’s documents along with photos that depict the situation.
We sincerely hope that the Ukrainian people overcome all obstacles and achieve complete victory. Glory to Ukraine!