The "Skelya" regiment called on journalists to be objective and condemned pressure on the media

Oleksiy Bratushchak, spokesperson for the 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya,” stated that any threats or pressure on media representatives are absolutely unacceptable on the part of military personnel. According to him, the unit’s leadership takes an uncompromising stance on protecting freedom of speech, since the military is fighting precisely so that journalists can work freely. 

The spokesperson made these remarks during an online conference while commenting on the regiment’s stance regarding an investigation by the publication “Babel.”

Bratuschak noted that during a meeting with the commander, a clear ban was issued on any actions against the authors of the article, since the regiment’s mission is to fight the enemy on the front lines, not the press. At the same time, he appealed to media representatives not to generalize isolated incidents and not to use disparaging headlines. The spokesperson emphasized that individual incidents within the unit are being investigated and mistakes are being corrected; and therefore urged the media not to call the soldiers “butchers” or spread the notion that service in “Skelya” is “a death sentence.”

This was reported by Censor.NET.

Earlier, the 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya” denied allegations of beating conscripts who later died, stating that the causes of death were primarily related to underlying medical conditions or accidents. The unit emphasizes that it is cooperating with the investigation and wants a full investigation into every case, without exception. 

In March, at least five recruits from the 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya” died less than two weeks after being mobilized. According to official data as of May 19, the causes of death were heart and lung diseases. 

The 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya” responded to media reports about the deaths of recruits while on duty. The unit stated that it is ready to cooperate with law enforcement and urged people not to jump to conclusions. Military officials emphasize that each case must be investigated separately.

Azad Safarov, chief producer for the British television channel Sky News in Ukraine and a documentary filmmaker, reported on an armed incident involving servicemen from the 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skelya,” which took place in March 2025 near Dobropillia.