The bodies of two men were found in the Tysa River in Zakarpattia Oblast by Ukrainian border guards on April 27. It is suspected that these men were attempting to illegally flee Ukraine by swimming across the river, as there have been multiple reports of men of draft age trying to escape the country during martial law. The State Border Guard Service warned of the dangers of swimming the Tysa River, citing sharp stones, strong currents, and cold temperatures as potential risks to life and health. This incident brings the total number of people found dead in the area after attempting to cross the river to 24.
Law enforcement agencies in Ukraine have uncovered nearly 400 criminal networks that help individuals evade military service by aiding them in fleeing abroad. In response to this, Ukraine updated its legal framework to increase mobilization efforts in 2024. President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a new law on mobilization on April 16, introducing penalties for those dodging the draft. Additionally, the minimum age for compulsory military service was lowered from 27 to 25, allowing men to be drafted as soon as they turn 25. Zelensky stated that younger men are desired in the military not only for their physical fitness but also for their ability to quickly adapt to and operate battlefield technology.
The tragic incident in the Tysa River highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian men of draft age who are seeking to evade military service during martial law. The State Border Guard Service has been vigilant in patrolling the area to prevent illegal crossings, but some individuals still attempt to flee the country by swimming across the river. The dangers of such attempts, especially at night, are emphasized by the presence of sharp debris and strong currents in the river. The discovery of the bodies of two men underscores the risks involved in trying to evade military service in Ukraine.
President Zelensky’s efforts to strengthen mobilization and crack down on draft evasion reflect the seriousness with which Ukraine is approaching its defense and security challenges. By updating the legal framework and imposing penalties for those avoiding the draft, the government aims to ensure that the military has a sufficient number of personnel to address current threats. Lowering the minimum age for compulsory military service is also part of this strategy, as younger men are seen as better equipped to handle modern battlefield technology. Zelensky’s focus on the younger generation’s fitness and tech-savviness highlights the changing nature of warfare and the importance of staying ahead in terms of military readiness.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, it is important for the international community to support independent journalism in the country. By joining the fight for independent reporting, individuals can help ensure that accurate information is disseminated and that the voices of those affected by the conflict are heard. Supporting independent journalism is crucial in understanding the full extent of the challenges faced by Ukraine and in advocating for peace and stability in the region. By standing together in support of independent journalism, we can contribute to a more informed and united global community that values truth and transparency.
