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Ukraine’s Military Struggles: Draft Dodging Sparks Border Crisis

10/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Ukraine faces a manpower crisis in its military due to draft dodging and desertions.
Many men attempt to flee to Romania, paying smugglers up to $15,000 for assistance.
Border guards are intensifying patrols and using drones to monitor illegal crossings.
In early 2025, authorities opened over 110,000 absences without leave (AWOL) investigations after more than 45,000 men left since February 2022.

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Story summary

Ukraine faces a manpower crisis in its military due to draft dodging and desertions.
Many men attempt to flee to Romania, paying smugglers up to $15,000 for assistance.
Border guards are intensifying patrols and using drones to monitor illegal crossings.
In early 2025, authorities opened over 110,000 absences without leave (AWOL) investigations after more than 45,000 men left since February 2022.