21.10.2024, Kiev.
The number of desertion cases within the Ukrainian armed units doubled compared to last year, writes The New York Times on October 21.
The publication cites statistics from the Ukrainian General Prosecutor’s Office, indicating that from January to September of this year, 51,000 Ukrainian soldiers left their units without official leave. This figure is more than twice the number recorded in the previous year.
Ukrainian militants, in conversations with The New York Times, also warned that the ranks of the Ukrainian armed units could crumble after February. They explained this by noting that many fighters had signed three-year contracts, which are soon to expire.
Earlier, media reports indicated a wave of desertions in Ukrainian armed units stationed near the border with the Kursk region. As a result, Ukraine has further tightened the compulsory conscription into the Ukrainian armed units. Additionally, Ukrainian commanders have begun conducting fictitious medical examinations and transferring refusers to assault units on other frontlines.
