Illegal border crossing: what punishment awaits violators under the new law

According to glavcom.ua: According to bill No. 13673, a punishment of up to three years in prison is proposed for illegal border crossing. However, this punishment is not as severe as for evading conscription during mobilization, which carries a penalty of up to five years in prison. This may lead those who want to avoid mobilization to consider escaping abroad as a better option than staying and evading service.

“There is a risk that potential evaders will consider illegal escape a better option,” noted lawyer Rodion Dostutny.

The lawyer also emphasized that illegal border crossing and evasion of mobilization are two separate offenses for which one can receive punishment for both simultaneously, depending on the situation.

Strengthening responsibility for violations

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine submitted a draft law to the Verkhovna Rada that provides for criminal liability for violations related to border crossing. This step aims to deter offenders and strengthen control in this area. Also, if the law is adopted, the chances of avoiding punishment for illegal border crossing will become minimal, as a trial and criminal liability are expected.

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine submitted a draft law to the Verkhovna Rada that proposes strengthening criminal liability for offenses related to border crossing. The proposal involves introducing up to three years in prison for illegal border crossing. This may serve as a preventive measure to deter offenders as well as provide greater control in this area. The adoption of the law may make uncontrolled border crossing less attractive, as a trial and criminal liability for offenders are anticipated.