Military Official Detained in Zakarpattia for Demanding Cars in Exchange for Draft Evasion

Lieutenant Colonel Apprehended in Western Ukraine

According to Главком: A lieutenant colonel, who heads a district military recruitment and social support office in the Zakarpattia region, has been detained by law enforcement on suspicion of soliciting an illegal benefit. The suspect had previously held a similar position in the Khmelnytskyi region. According to the investigation, he orchestrated a scheme to obtain an unlawful advantage from a company's deputy director.

The official's alleged demand was for two personal vehicles: a Renault Sandero in April 2024 and a Renault Duster in August 2025. In return, he promised not to initiate conscription measures against the company's employees. After his transfer to Zakarpattia, the businessman requested the return of the cars or their donation to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The suspect further demanded the vehicles be re-registered to a close relative, promising to assist in removing them from military registration. He has now been formally notified of suspicion under Part 3 of Article 368 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which concerns the acceptance of an illegal benefit by a public official. A court has imposed a pre-trial restraint measure, and the question of his suspension from duty is being decided.

Separate Detainment in Kyiv

In a separate case in Kyiv, a man was detained for allegedly promising to arrange a departure abroad under the status of a clergyman for $10,000. These incidents highlight the severity of misconduct and bribery within official structures in Ukraine.

The cases in Zakarpattia and Kyiv illustrate the persistence of corruption schemes in Ukraine, particularly concerning military conscription and other state procedures. Such crimes can significantly undermine public trust in government institutions, a critical issue during wartime. Continued enforcement efforts are essential to address these systemic challenges.