A soldier from Lviv has been sentenced to five years in prison for repeatedly deserting his military unit. The ruling was issued on April 1 by the Kam’yanka-Buz’ka District Court in Lviv Oblast.
The court’s decision revealed that the soldier had left his post without permission twice between December 2023 and November 2025. This led to a criminal investigation against him.
During the court proceedings, the soldier admitted his guilt, explaining that he was mobilized in July 2023. He left his military unit during a relocation to return home, citing the need to care for his wife and child, both of whom were unwell. Although he returned to military service afterward, he deserted again for the same reasons.
The court found him guilty of committing a criminal offense under part 5 of Article 407 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, resulting in a five-year prison sentence. The verdict is subject to appeal.
Context of Desertion in the Ukrainian Military
Recently, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine announced changes to simplify the return of soldiers who have deserted their units.
Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi noted that the primary reasons for desertion include soldiers’ reluctance to serve and fears for their safety. He emphasized the need for military recruitment centers to treat mobilized individuals with greater understanding.
Military Ombudsman Olha Reshetylova pointed out that most desertion cases occur among newly mobilized soldiers.
Related News:
- Challenges in Military Recruitment Amid Ongoing Conflict
- Ministry of Defense Proposes Solutions for Desertion Issues
- Military Ombudsman Discusses Key Reasons for Desertion
A soldier from Lviv has been sentenced to five years for desertion after leaving his unit to care for his sick family. The case highlights ongoing issues of desertion within the Ukrainian military, particularly among newly mobilized personnel.