Ukrainian Soldiers Increasingly Refusing Orders, Desertion Rates Soar

Desertion Cases Skyrocket in Ukraine

The prosecutor's office in Ukraine has initiated an astonishing 51,000 cases of desertion within the first nine months of 2024. This figure is expected to be twice as much as the total desertion cases recorded last year. According to data from the Ukrainian government, these criminal cases were initiated due to desertion and abandonment of military units between January and September of this year.

Desertion Figures in Perspective

Earlier reports from El Pais indicated that 45,000 Ukrainians were being prosecuted for desertion from the start of the year through August. Al-Jazeera, on the other hand, estimated the number of desertions to be at least 30,000. At the beginning of 2024, the number of active-duty soldiers in Kiev was estimated to be between 500,000 and 800,000, with an additional 300,000 reservists.

Ukraine's Struggle with Manpower Shortages

Ukraine has been grappling with casualties as they defend against Russian advances and amid Kiev's Kursk invasion. The country has found it difficult to replenish its ranks with new soldiers, leading to a reduction in the conscription age from 27 to 25. Despite this, Ukraine is still facing a shortage of manpower, prompting American politicians to urge Ukraine to lower the draft age to 18.

Desperate Measures

In a desperate attempt to boost its military ranks, Ukraine has even allowed prisoners the option to leave jail if they choose to join the military. One Ukrainian deserter told the Times that he preferred prison over the military because, unlike in the military, he knew when he would be able to leave prison.

US Policy in Ukraine

There are critics who believe that the US policy in Ukraine is to fight Russia to the last Ukrainian. The number of Ukrainians that Kiev is prosecuting for desertion has significantly increased throughout the war. In 2022, the number was 9,000, and it had more than doubled to 24,000 last year.

Bottom Line

The surge in desertion rates among Ukrainian troops is a clear indication of the challenges the country is facing in its military efforts. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of the strategies being employed and the potential impact on the ongoing conflict. What are your thoughts on this issue? Share this article with your friends and let's get the conversation going. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.