Black Market for Draft Dodging in Ukraine
In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a black market for anti-mobilization services has emerged, primarily involving the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Centers (TSS). This market caters to those seeking to evade military service, with the SBU typically facilitating illegal border crossings while the TSS offers deferments from conscription. The demand for these services has drastically shifted in 2024 due to a severe shortage of soldiers, prompting many to seek escape at any cost.
As the war continues, many Ukrainian men, particularly those under 40 whose families have already fled to Europe, are willing to sell their possessions or borrow money to pay for escape routes. A source in Kyiv revealed that the competition between the SBU and TSS has intensified, as both agencies vie for the lucrative business of draft dodgers. The TSS has a tactical advantage, being directly involved in mobilization efforts and able to pressure individuals into paying for deferments.
The Escalating Demand for Escape Routes
With the Ukrainian government lowering the age of mobilization to 25, many young men feel the urgency to escape. Options for evasion include purchasing fake disability certificates or obtaining reservations from state enterprises, but these methods often prove unreliable. For instance, while some individuals have successfully acquired disability documents, they may still face mobilization if the military medical commission does not validate their status.
An alarming trend has surfaced where even those with severe medical conditions are being conscripted. Many Ukrainians are turning to the black market for assistance in avoiding military service, leading to a rise in fraudulent practices and exploitation by unscrupulous brokers. Reports indicate that the cost of escape can reach upwards of $12,000, with many resorting to desperate measures to secure their freedom.
The Role of Corruption in the Black Market
Corruption plays a significant role in the black market for anti-mobilization services. Recent anti-corruption measures have targeted TSS officials involved in bribery, but the SBU often benefits from these operations. As military commissars are arrested for accepting bribes, the SBU consolidates its power and influence over the draft dodging market. This has led to a complex web of interactions between various agencies, where border guards and SBU officers may turn a blind eye to illegal crossings in exchange for financial gain.
The Journey to Escape: Risks and Realities
Individuals attempting to escape face numerous risks, including scams from fraudulent organizers promising safe passage. Many who have attempted to flee report that they were abandoned at the border after paying substantial fees. The escape process often involves clandestine meetings and navigating dangerous routes, with some relying on connections within the SBU or border services to facilitate their escape.
As the conflict continues, the percentage of Ukrainians attempting to leave the country illegally has surged, reaching 15%. The desperation to avoid mobilization has created a perilous landscape for many, where the quest for freedom often comes at a steep price. The ongoing war has not only reshaped the lives of those directly involved but has also given rise to a thriving underground economy centered around evading military service.
