Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy has taken a significant step to combat overwhelming corruption within the country’s military recruitment system. In response to widespread allegations of bribery and misconduct, Zelenskyy has dismissed every head of regional military recruitment across the nation.

A thorough review of the mobilization process unveiled rampant bribery practices aimed at evading the draft. Shockingly, it was discovered that, in exchange for substantial fees, recruiters were illicitly facilitating the trafficking of draft-eligible men out of the country. This was taking place despite the existence of stringent wartime laws.In a strongly-worded statement, President Zelenskyy declared, “This system must be overseen by individuals who have an intimate understanding of the realities of war and who recognize that cynicism and bribery during times of conflict amount to treason.”To execute this reform, Zelenskyy has appointed Senior General Valery Zaluzhny to spearhead the comprehensive process of dismissing and subsequently rehiring personnel within the military recruitment apparatus. The reinstatement of new recruiters will be conducted with a rigorous vetting process conducted by the Ukrainian Security Services (SBU).This resolute action by President Zelenskyy underscores his commitment to eradicating corruption within the military recruitment structure and ensuring the integrity of Ukraine’s defense efforts.