The Ukrainian government is set to unveil a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing instances of military absenteeism, commonly referred to as SЗЧ. This initiative comes as officials recognize the multifaceted nature of the problem, which has been a growing concern amid ongoing conflict.
In a recent statement, parliamentary representative Venislavskyi emphasized that the reasons behind SЗЧ are diverse and not solely linked to war fatigue. He noted that newly mobilized soldiers are more likely to engage in such actions compared to those with longer service records, indicating that the issue is more complex than it may appear.
Venislavskyi pointed out that various factors contribute to military absenteeism, including personal issues and perceived injustices within the military hierarchy. He mentioned that the General Staff and the Ministry of Defense’s personnel management are actively addressing these underlying problems.
From a legal perspective, Venislavskyi explained that recent amendments to the law governing mandatory military service have introduced mechanisms for the quicker reintegration of soldiers who have left their posts but wish to return. Additionally, the Committee on Law Enforcement is working on the criminal law aspects related to these cases.
However, he acknowledged challenges in reinforcing legal responses to absenteeism, citing resistance from some lawmakers who prioritize their electoral prospects over national security. This political dynamic complicates efforts to establish effective measures against SЗЧ.
Venislavskyi expressed optimism that the new Minister of Defense and the ministry itself are committed to addressing the situation. He anticipates that a comprehensive approach to minimizing absenteeism will be presented soon.
It is important to note that in Ukraine, unauthorized abandonment of a military unit during combat conditions can result in imprisonment for up to ten years. Nevertheless, the law provides a pathway for first-time offenders to return to service.
Last October, courts issued approximately one hundred rulings allowing soldiers who had committed such offenses to resume their duties instead of serving prison sentences. Despite these provisions, military offenses, including absenteeism and desertion, continue to pose significant challenges in the context of the ongoing war.
According to the Ministry of Defense, there are currently around 200,000 reported cases of SЗЧ, with an additional two million Ukrainians listed as wanted. President’s Office head Kyrylo Budanov has underscored the detrimental impact of these absenteeism cases on Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
The Ukrainian government plans to introduce a strategy to tackle military absenteeism, addressing the complex reasons behind the issue. Recent legal amendments aim to facilitate the reintegration of soldiers, although political resistance poses challenges to effective implementation.
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