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AWOL

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In 2026, Ukraine continues to tackle AWOL (Absence Without Leave) among servicemen, with over 1,700 personnel using new procedures to return to duty. Despite these efforts, large-scale desertion schemes persist, with organizers demanding anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000 to assist military personnel in leaving their posts unlawfully. The Defense Ministry and the Verkhovna Rada are preparing significant changes to the military code to address AWOL and desertion, including new penalties and a drive to bolster the recruitment of foreign soldiers. The complexity of this issue is underscored by recent high-profile cases, including a scheme in Odesa where a TRC official was caught accepting bribes to resolve AWOL cases, reflecting ongoing challenges in eliminating corruption within the military structure.

What is the current procedure for returning to service after going AWOL in Ukraine?

Returning to military service after AWOL involves compliance with the Ukrainian Criminal Code. The procedure requires coordination with authorized officials as outlined in directives from the Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief, facilitating a legal re-entry into active duty under specific conditions.

How prevalent is AWOL among Ukrainian servicemen during the conflict?

Since the full-scale invasion, over 310,000 AWOL cases have been recorded, highlighting a prevalent issue within the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The situation has prompted legislative and procedural changes to address both the root causes and the penalties for unauthorized absences.

What measures are being taken to address AWOL and desertion in Ukraine?

A multi-faceted approach is being undertaken to address AWOL and desertion, including new laws, procedural simplifications for voluntary returns, and targeted actions against corruption within recruitment centers. The goal is to mitigate unauthorized absences while reinforcing military discipline and integrity.

How does corruption influence AWOL and desertion cases in Ukraine?

Corruption significantly impacts AWOL cases, with several schemes exposed where officials profited by facilitating unlawful departures or concealing AWOL instances for money. The government is actively combating such corruption to maintain military discipline and trust.

What are the legal consequences for Ukrainian soldiers who go AWOL?

The legal consequences for AWOL are severe and include potential imprisonment, as evidenced by recent court cases. However, ongoing discussions in the Verkhovna Rada, including proposed draft laws, aim to redefine penalties and introduce opportunities for voluntary returns without criminal liability under specific circumstances.

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Articles AWOL

Hosha After year of going AWOL – back to front: Story of "mayor of forest" A soldier of the 33rd Separate Assault Regiment, after serving in reconnaissance, spending a year AWOL and returning to the military, was deployed to the Huliaipole sector, where he and his comrades captured a Russian dugout and held the position for more than a month under continuous enemy attacks. 8 568 9 Previously in trend: Butusov Plus

Rohoziuk Brigade commander Dmytro Rohoziuk: "AWOL cases on our end have dropped severalfold. People keep coming back" Today, Dmytro Rohoziuk commands the 60th Separate Mechanized Brigade, which is part of the 3rd Army Corps. As a child, he dreamed of becoming a firefighter. To him, the profession embodied real public benefit, everyday courage, and responsibility. 12 083 62 Previously in trend: Situation at front

AWOL Between two brigades and without pay: why soldiers return from AWOL but can’t serve This year, judging by prosecutors’ statistics, the number of criminal proceedings has increased severalfold. At the same time, the military are publicly saying that there are people who have returned and are ready to carry out combat missions, but there is no simple, fast mechanism to assign them to positions and ensure they receive their monetary allowance. 10 569 7

The K-2 Battalion of the 54th Mechanised Brigade has announced that it will accept military personnel into service after the SZCH. "Harsher penalties won’t restore discipline in army. It will only lead to more going AWOL" The Verkhovna Rada’s Committee on Law Enforcement recommends passing at first reading draft bill No. 13452, setting a five-to-ten-year prison term for service members who disobey a commander’s order, with no option for courts to hand down a lesser punishment or grant probation. 8 249 32

Ihor, Kryvoruchko On demobilisation and AWOL I’m not the most seasoned fighter in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. My combat record is decent, but to be honest, it’s average. 13 114 48

Training of "Anne of Kyiv" Brigade in France On results of Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff meeting on 155th SMB "Anne of Kyiv" According to Censor.NET’s sources, Zelenskyy listened to information about the situation in the 155th Mechanised Brigade, and was most interested in the circumstances of the desertion of several dozen soldiers from the brigade in France and the unauthorised departure of some 1,700 soldiers during the formation of the brigade in Ukraine. 16 979 37