Ukraine’s First Muslim Veteran Space to Open in Kyiv

In Kyiv, the renovation of Ukraine's first veteran space for Muslims is nearing completion. This facility will allow the tens of thousands of Muslims serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine to gather, share experiences, pray, and receive support, including psychological assistance. The space is expected to open in a few weeks.

Arslan Misiratov, head of the Crimean organization for military veterans and combat participants, shared this with Suspilne Krym.

"We are working closely with chaplains from the General Staff. Many soldiers are being discharged and struggling to find their place. We decided to open this space to help them with employment, provide legal consultations, and support their families," he explained.

The veteran space will feature four rooms: a foyer, a prayer room (namazkhana), a room for educational sessions, and a room for chaplains and lawyers.

"In war, there is no distinction based on religion or nationality. We are all like one family, fighting together because we have a common enemy. However, in the post-war period, many people focus on halal food and need a place to pray. We need to provide these facilities," said Rakhim Babaiev, head of the Kyiv Regional Organization of the All-Ukrainian Union of Defenders of Ukraine and a veteran, to Suspilne Krym.

The space will be open to both male and female veterans who practice Islam, with all services provided free of charge.

According to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Muslims serve in one out of every four Ukrainian army battalions.