Inside Ukraine's tough choice: Who goes to war and who stays home?
Ukraine faces hard decisions about military service as the war continues into its third year. Street checks for eligible men and increased taxes show how the conflict affects everyday life
In todays Ukraine the topic of military service makes people nervous and quiet (especially men aged 25-60) People dont want to discuss it: some worry about getting draft papers others fear being picked-up right on the street
The reality of these fears showed up when Marcos brother-in-law got stopped near Kyiv. Traffic police with military staff checked his documents and since his medical records werent up-to-date‚ they took him straight to a clinic; next day he was at boot camp – a common story these days
The war that started about 3 years ago changed everything: now theres a new 5% military tax (up from 1‚5%) and constant need for soldiers. Ivona Kostyna who runs Veteran Hub says: “not a single person here hasnt had their life turned upside-down by this war“
The numbers tell a clear story – Russia has more people to draw from (their army is about 1‚5 million vs Ukraines 900‚000) Plus theres a new twist: around 3000 North-Korean soldiers joined Russian forces last fall
Wide range of positions according to your experience and preference; We guarantee you can select the unit you want to serve in
The government tries different ways to get volunteers:
- Big signs in metros and cafes
- Money rewards for signing up
- Options to pick your service unit
- Family members can serve together
But its not like early-2022 when people lined up to join. Andreii a 23-year old tour guide puts it straight: “The cause is good and we need soldiers but why should it be me when others are abroad or pay their way out“
Problems with bribes make things worse – last year 33 officials got caught paying doctors for fake medical papers. This made President Zelensky close down medical review boards. Meanwhile places like gyms still have young men working out which makes some people like Ohla whose husband fights upset – though they might be under-age or already served
Kostyna points out that Kyiv still doesnt look like a war-time city with its nice cafes and nightlife but says this will change: “Our military needs more people and money – if it dont come by choice it must come by rule“
