Honzyk has a large presence online, occasionally posting about the war while focusing on his identity. Several other LGBTQ+ soldiers have taken to posting online, with some wearing unicorn symbols on their uniforms in an effort to spread awareness of their contributions. To Honzyk, their work has pushed change more than their past pride parades could.

“The parades and pride events were not enough,” Honzyk added. “The better way to change attitudes is what we’re doing now. We entered the military and we’re showing that we’re worthy. We’re not hiding somewhere at the back. We’re doing real missions, dangerous missions.”

The Ukrainian legislature has seemingly recognized queer military efforts, recently drafting legislation that would not only recognize same-sex relationships, but protect inheritance, medical, and other rights for the partners of LGTBQ+ soldiers killed or wounded in battle.

Across the border, Russian president Vladimir Putin has outlawed "gay propaganda," making it effectively illegal to be LGBTQ+ in public, as well as banning the topics in media and online. For some Ukrainians, homophobia and transphobia are now associated with Russian values.

For those still not in support of LGBTQ+ rights, Honzyk said that he isn't worried about their opinions as he returns to the frontlines.

“If you accept yourself, then the world will accept you too. You need to remember a lot of people are wearing masks, but you shouldn’t do that because you have only one life, and any day a missile may kill you,” he continued. “Don’t care about what other people say, because they’ll always find somebody to hate.”