Ukraine faces military desertions as Russian invasion grinds through 5th year

PBS NewsHour
by Jack Hewson
April 9, 2026
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2 min read

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Ukraine's military is experiencing desertions as the Russian invasion continues into its fifth year.

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Ukraine's military is experiencing a growing problem of desertion as the Russian invasion continues into its fifth year. An estimated 150,000 service members are reportedly missing from their units. Soldiers are citing fatigue from long deployments, anger over perceived "suicide missions," and forced mobilization as reasons for leaving. This trend highlights the severe strain on Ukraine's fighting forces amidst the prolonged conflict. Special correspondent Jack Hewson's report details the experiences of soldiers pushed to their breaking point.

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