In western cities such as Lviv, far from Ukraine's front lines, resentment toward TCK mobilization units seems to be growing.

Officers say the work is deeply unpopular and psychologically crushing, but insist that they have no alternative as the front line remains in urgent need of soldiers.

Some residents tell DW that mobilization is essential. However, social media videos of violent detentions have fueled public anger and prompted authorities to open hundreds of investigations into abuse of power.