Belarusian Route for Draft Dodgers: 1424 Detained for Illegal Border Crossing in 2025.

Increase in Popularity of Border Crossing with Belarus

According to TSN.ua: In 2025, there has been an increase in the popularity of crossing the border with Belarus among Ukrainian draft dodgers. Border guards detained 1424 men of conscription age for illegally attempting to cross the border with Belarus. This is a significant increase compared to previous years: in 2024, 326 people were detained, and in 2023 — only 4 people.

Statistics of Detainees

The Belarusian route has become the fifth most common for detained conscripts. According to the data, the detentions occurred as follows:

• Romania — 10,066 detained;
• Moldova — 4,937 detained;
• Slovakia — 2,265 detained;
• Hungary — 1,841 detained;
• Poland — 511 people;
• Russia — 1 person.

From the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Russia until December 1, 2025, over 80,000 Ukrainian men aged 18-60 have arrived from Belarus to Poland. The increase in the number of detainees on the Belarusian route has raised concerns among law enforcement. Some draft dodgers reported dangerous situations they found themselves in. One of them noted:

“They ask you to surrender positions”

While another recounted:

“I was asked about the movement of military equipment”

Additionally, another draft dodger shared his experience: “There were Russian special forces there. We were met by special units. They bound me and my partner.” According to Volodymyr Zhyhar, “these people are put under control, and then they are indeed taken to the border with the EU. Because their main goal is basically fulfilled.”

The increase in the number of detained Ukrainians at the Belarusian border indicates rising tensions and risks associated with mobilization in Ukraine. Despite the fact that many people are trying to avoid conscription, this situation may lead to serious consequences for both the draft dodgers themselves and the region’s security as a whole. It is crucial for the relevant authorities to closely monitor the developments and take necessary measures to ensure order at the borders.