Ukraine's military mobilization effort is descending into violence, with regular attacks on recruitment officers and a surge in complaints against draft patrols.
The country's military ombudswoman calls it a "major problem." National Police report over 600 assaults on officers, including fatal stabbings and riots.
The crisis stems from war fatigue and fear. The initial wave of volunteers is long gone. Military analyst Ivan Stupak describes the resulting tactic, known as "busification," where patrols grab men on the street to fill urgent manpower gaps.
But the aggression is not one-sided. Ukraine's Human Rights Commissioner recorded over 6,000 complaints against recruiters last year, including abuse and unlawful detention.
Kyrylo Ogdansky, an exempt university professor, was beaten by plainclothes officers after questioning their authority. "He hit me in the nose several times," he says.
The anger has stymied reform. President Zelensky condemned the violence. The recent sacking of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who was beginning to overhaul the system, leaves the crisis unresolved.
Veteran Vasyl Krupych, attacked while on patrol, voices the core dilemma: "Everyone is afraid to die."
