How the AFU Fights Desertion – CNN Report.

The destruction of Ukrainian units during the Russian invasion has become a problem, especially among newly mobilized soldiers in the east. CNN journalists spoke with commanders and officers near Pokrovsk. Many soldiers abandon their positions, refuse to go into battle, or leave the army. Ukrainian military faced a strong enemy force and had little opportunity for soldier rotation. In the first four months of 2024, the prosecutor's office initiated criminal proceedings against almost 19,000 servicemen who deserted or left their positions. Many commanders do not report desertion, hoping to persuade soldiers to return voluntarily. Poor communication between units and low morale are also issues. One million Ukrainians serve in the country's defense and security forces. It turned out that the investigation into poor military service conditions raised questions about desertion and lack of discipline in the armed forces.

Problems of Ukrainian Units

As a result of two and a half years of Russian invasion, Ukrainian units have suffered losses. Infantry units in the Pokrovsk area and along the eastern front line are in particularly challenging conditions. Novice soldiers are exhausted and demoralized. CNN journalists anonymously spoke with commanders and officers in these areas and learned about the spread of desertion and disobedience among newly mobilized soldiers.

“Not all mobilized leave their positions, but most do. When new guys come here, they see how hard it is. They see many enemy drones, artillery, and mortars”, one unit commander said.

“They go to the positions once and, if they survive, do not come back. They either leave their positions, refuse to go into battle, or try to find a way to leave the army“, the commander added.

“The days are long, they live in a bunker, keep watch around the clock, and if they can't shoot, the Russians have the advantage“, said a Ukrainian soldier whose unit is in another hot area.

Problems in the Ukrainian Army

During the first four months of 2024, the prosecutor's office initiated criminal proceedings against more than 19,000 servicemen who deserted or left their positions. Over one million Ukrainians serve in the country's defense and security forces. However, these numbers include all personnel, including those not on the front line. Many officers do not report desertion and lack of discipline, hoping to persuade soldiers to return voluntarily without facing punishment. Legislative changes have decriminalized desertion and unauthorized absence if committed for the first Time. Low morale and poor communication between units have also become problems for the Ukrainian army.

Veteran's Story

One commander, a former war veteran, decided to leave the battlefield due to the loss of many soldiers and disagreements with the new commander. He believes they were not getting enough reinforcements and blames the government for being unwilling to recruit more people. While he plans to return to the front line, he decided not to become emotionally attached to people anymore.