As the war between Russia and Ukraine enters its third year, allegations of forced conscription have emerged, painting a grim picture of the desperate measures taken to bolster Ukraine's military forces. A recent report sheds light on the aggressive tactics employed by Ukrainian military recruiters, including confiscating passports and even attempting to enlist a mentally disabled man.

According to The New York Times, military recruiters in Ukraine have resorted to forceful methods to increase the country's manpower in the ongoing conflict with Russia. One 58-year-old taxi driver from the city of Kitsman, who wished to remain anonymous out of fear of reprisal, revealed that recruiters had seized his passport and returned it only after he underwent a medical screening.

Residents of Kitsman recounted stories of recruiters earning a reputation as "people snatchers." Over two dozen lawyers, activists, soldiers, conscripts, and their family members confirmed the use of strong-arm strategies by recruiters in their recruitment efforts.

Legal professionals and activists interviewed by The Times described the recruiters' aggressive tactics as exceeding their authority and being blatantly illegal in certain cases. Ukraine, like other countries, provides exemptions from the draft for individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Shockingly, recruiters attempted to send a mentally disabled 36-year-old man, Hryhorii Harasym, who takes medication for depression, to military training. Although Harasym was ultimately saved from conscription through the intervention of an attorney, the incident reveals the disturbing disregard for the well-being of prospective soldiers.

Attorney Tetiana Fefchak, who prevented Harasym's conscription, revealed that incidents of aggression by recruiters have significantly escalated in the past six months. Fefchak stated, "The military feel their impunity."

In response to the allegations of forced conscription, Ukraine's Ministry of Defense released a statement to The Times, indicating that changes to legislation relevant to mobilization and demobilization processes are currently being developed in the country's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada.

The ongoing war has taken a devastating toll on both Ukraine and Russia. Since Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion in February 2022, Ukraine's military has suffered massive losses on the battlefield. The Times reported in August that US officials estimated the death of 70,000 Ukrainian troops, with up to 120,000 wounded. These figures are likely to have increased given the continued heavy fighting in eastern Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia has witnessed an estimated 350,000 dead and injured troops as a result of the war.

As Ukraine grapples with the need for more soldiers to continue the fight against Russia, the disturbing reports of forced conscription raise serious concerns about the methods being employed and the treatment of vulnerable individuals. The accusations highlight the urgency for Ukraine's government to address these allegations and ensure that recruitment practices align with legal standards and respect the rights and well-being of individuals.