Ukraine is facing a serious manpower challenge as the war continues, with around 200,000 soldiers currently absent without official leave, according to the country’s new Defence Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov.
Speaking in parliament on Wednesday before lawmakers confirmed his appointment, Fedorov also revealed that nearly 2 million Ukrainians are officially listed as wanted for avoiding military service. It is the first time a senior Ukrainian official has publicly shared figures that show the scale of the problem.
Ukraine’s armed forces have been under constant pressure while defending the country against a much larger and better-equipped Russian military. Soldiers on the front lines have endured extremely harsh conditions, often holding key positions despite shortages in manpower and equipment. For months, reports of low morale and desertion have circulated, but Fedorov’s remarks mark the clearest acknowledgment so far.
Under Ukrainian law, all men aged 18 to 60 must be registered with the military and carry their documents at all times. However, only those between 25 and 60 can be mobilised. Martial law also prevents men aged 23 to 60 who are eligible for service from leaving the country, though tens of thousands are believed to have escaped illegally.
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