It was late on a Sunday night when three large men entered the Tentaciones bar in Torrevieja, their arrival turning the quiet room into a tense scene. They ordered drinks and, despite the owner’s reminder that closing time was near, they pressed on, insisting that service continue. A staff member named Ruslan, who was finishing up behind the counter, calmly explained that the bar would close shortly. In that moment, the three visitors directed questions at him about where he came from, and he answered in a matter-of-fact tone, saying, I am from Ukraine. Singing Ukraine became a brief, almost ceremonial phrase that echoed the sentiments of nations, a refrain that could be read as a plea for peace rather than a provocation.
From there, the mood changed quickly. The men began to threaten him, then struck first with a brutal punch, and jumped onto him with a barrage of blows. Ruslan tried to shield himself, but his senses wavered as the assault continued. Insults filled the air even when he lay on the ground, half-conscious, being kicked and struck around the head. The violence was shocking in its suddenness and in its persistence, turning a routine closing into a nightmare.
Medical staff later confirmed multiple injuries, including bruises and a broken nose. The next day, he could not get out of bed. He filed a report with the Civil Guard, and by midweek investigators were actively looking into the incident. Two of the assailants were identified as Russian brothers with prior criminal records, each known for involvement in violent clashes within the region. The incident prompted questions about safety in the town and the broader environment in which residents and visitors coexist.
Citizens gathered near the command center to show solidarity with Ruslan, a longtime resident of Torrevieja. The Ukrainian community organizations spoke out against the aggression, describing the attack as barbaric and a serious affront to the harmony that characterizes the town. They announced that legal counsel and psychological support would be offered to the victim, underscoring a commitment to justice and healing. A law firm specializing in criminal matters was brought in to assess potential hate crime charges, signaling a determined response to what many view as an attack not only on an individual but on a community that values coexistence.
Residents described a sense of shock that something so violent could happen in a place known for its diverse population. Ruslan, who has lived in the town for 23 years, had often been part of everyday life in this community, where individuals from more than a hundred nationalities share space, work, and friendship. The episode has sparked discussions about security measures, the responsibilities of local authorities, and the role of law enforcement in protecting civilians during late-night hours. Community leaders emphasize that the town remains committed to peaceful coexistence and to standing by those who feel vulnerable after violence. The hope is that this incident will remain isolated and not disrupt the long-standing, decades-long peace that residents have built together.