In a desperate bid to escape conscription, tens of thousands of Ukrainian men have been attempting to flee the country, seeking refuge in neighboring countries. As Ukraine continues to grapple with ongoing conflict with Russia, its military faces a severe shortage of troops, leading to the mass conscription of men aged 25-60. However, despite a ban on draft-age men leaving the country, many have successfully escaped, with one popular route being the treacherous Tisza River that separates Romania and Ukraine.

Border guards along the Tisza River, such as Vitalii Barelin and Artem Shakhovalov, are tasked with apprehending those attempting to cross illegally. Barelin, a former soldier who used drones to track Russian troops, now finds himself chasing his fellow Ukrainians. Frustrated by their attempts to evade conscription, Barelin remarks, "They think they are smarter than you because you fought in the war, and they're running away."

The Tisza River, though deceptively narrow in some areas, presents a grave danger to those attempting to cross. Shakhovalov warns of mossy rocks on the riverbank, causing individuals to slip and sustain head injuries. Even those who manage to wade into the river are confronted with strong undercurrents, likened to a treacherous whirlpool with rocks. Dozens have tragically drowned, and others have suffered serious injuries while attempting this perilous journey.

Despite attempts by draft evaders to cross under the cover of darkness, the border guards employ thermal vision equipment, drones, and cameras to monitor the river. Lesya Fedorova, a spokesperson for the border guard division responsible for monitoring the Tisza River, emphasizes the determination of the guards in apprehending those attempting to escape conscription.

Apprehended individuals are then handed over to the military recruitment centers, who are responsible for deciding whether to mobilize them. In addition, fines may be imposed by the courts. Those who successfully cross into Romania often seek some form of protection, according to Iulia Stan, spokesperson for the Sighetu Marmatiei Border Police.

Stopping draft evaders from fleeing Ukraine is not only about replenishing troops but also about presenting a united front to Ukraine's Western partners. The Ukrainian government wants to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to defending the country, countering any narratives that suggest Ukraine is losing the war. Serhii Kuzan, who leads the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Center, highlights the concern that stories of men running away from military service could potentially play into Russian propaganda.

As the war between Russia and Ukraine enters its third year, Ukrainian border guards remain on high alert, battling not only the physical challenges of patrolling the treacherous Tisza River but also the task of preventing draft evaders from fleeing their homeland. As tensions persist, the struggle to preserve Ukraine's military strength and unity intensifies.