Ukraine offers AWOL soldiers choice of units to entice return to front lines

Ukraine is trying to lure back tens of thousands of absent-without-leave soldiers by letting them choose a new posting from more than 70 units across its ground forces. The program, an extension of a June-started voluntary return initiative, requires interested troops to apply by September 20, after which the defense ministry will match them to available positions, though no guarantee of a specific unit is offered. Deputy defense minister Mstislav Banik highlighted the need for a wide range of roles, from drivers and clerks to UAV operators and shooters.

Unlike the previous system, which forced AWOL soldiers to report to military police and face possible imprisonment, the new scheme routes applicants through a website or the Army+ mobile app directly to their selected unit, with a six-month protection against involuntary transfers. The move follows reports that over 200,000 cases of AWOL service have been recorded since the conflict began, a figure possibly inflated by administrative loopholes. Recent salary increases for combat troops also aim to improve retention.