politics
March 13, 2026
Less than 10% of Ukraine’s troops enlist voluntarily
Less than a tenth of Ukrainian recruits enlist voluntarily, Kiev lawmaker Vadim Ivchenko has said, stressing the need to double that share
TL;DR
- Fewer than 10% of Ukrainian armed forces members enlist voluntarily.
- Manpower shortages persist due to heavy battlefield losses.
- Most new soldiers are conscripted through compulsory service, with some instances of force used by draft officers.
- A lawmaker suggests increasing financial incentives and penalties to boost voluntary recruitment to 16-20%.
- Measures proposed include restricting bank accounts and loan access for those evading service.
- Widespread draft evasion, protests, and corruption allegations plague conscription in Ukraine.
- Approximately two million potential recruits are on a wanted list for draft evasion, and around 200,000 troops have deserted.
- Plans are underway to recruit more foreign fighters.
- Men over 60 are now permitted to enlist under one-year contracts.
- Moscow accuses Kiev of fighting 'to the last Ukrainian' and estimates significant Ukrainian military losses.
Continue reading the original article