Tragedy at the borders. 30 Ukrainians die fleeing draft amid conflict

In February 2022, in the wake of escalating armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, around 30 Ukrainian citizens perished while attempting to cross their nation's borders illegally. These desperate attempts were largely to evade military conscription.

Andrij Demczenko, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian border guard, shared with the news agency Ukrinform that some of these individuals died amid their efforts to traverse a mountain river or while navigating difficult mountainous terrains. This information was disclosed on a Monday evening.

Under Ukraine's martial law regulations, men aged between 18 and 60, with limited exceptions, are prohibited from leaving the country due to the potential need for military mobilization.

The spokesperson highlighted that attempts to cross the border illegally are a daily occurrence. Most attempts are made at unofficial crossing points with Moldova and Romania. The border with Poland is commonly associated with individuals possessing forged documents.

Demczenko has earlier mentioned that roughly ten men are apprehended daily for attempting to leave Ukraine unlawfully.

Last week, Ukrainian authorities suspended consular services for draft-age men until May 18. They expressed criticism toward Ukrainian citizens abroad who seek assistance from the state yet show reluctance to contribute to national defense efforts.

In November, a report by the BBC, drawing on data about illegal cross-border movements with Poland, Moldova, Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia, revealed that nearly 20,000 men have fled Ukraine since the conflict began, aiming to dodge military conscription.