"Society’s psychological resilience is as much a defense asset as air defense": expert insights from AUK Lecturer Vladyslav Klochkov

In a high-intensity war, military psychology and mental health extend far beyond healthcare — they represent critical pillars of national security and defense planning.

This was discussed by Vladyslav Klochkov — a lecturer in military psychology at American University Kyiv, a retired Major General, and the former head of the Main Directorate for Moral and Psychological Support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (2021–2024) — in an extensive interview with the UKRINFORM during the international SCALE conference in Prague.

According to WHO estimates, nearly 9.6 million Ukrainians are living with or at risk of mental health conditions due to the war. Ukraine is accumulating an unprecedented level of societal resilience — expertise that exists in no textbook in the world.

Key takeaways from the interview with Vladyslav Klochkov:

• Social trauma affects the entire society: Attention must be focused not only on the front lines but also on the civilian population and the 7 million veterans who will be reintegrating into civilian life.
• Ukraine as a global research hub: We must become a leader in scientific developments regarding mental health and share this expertise with our NATO partners.
• Resilience as an element of defense: NATO member states should integrate societal psychological resilience directly into their defense planning alongside air defense systems and ammunition.

We thank Vladyslav Klochkov for bringing his vital expertise, strategic vision, and real-world experience directly to AUK students!

Read the full interview at the link (in Ukrainian).