Ukraine's struggle to recruit soldiers has taken a violent turn, with attacks on draft officers becoming increasingly common. This issue is particularly concerning as the country grapples with the fifth year of Russia's full-scale invasion. The situation has escalated to the point where attacks on recruiters are now considered 'regular' and 'a major problem' by Ukraine's military ombudswoman. The latest National Police Service report recorded over 600 assaults on recruitment officers, with incidents ranging from stabbings to violent protests. The root causes of this violence are multifaceted, including fear of the front line and reluctance to sign up for an endless war. The 'busification' phase, where men are forcibly recruited and sent to the front, has led to a backlash against draft officers. The situation is further complicated by the recent sacking of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, which has stalled attempts to address the conscription crisis. The need for a solution is urgent, and the current acting defence minister has yet to implement any effective reforms. The personal stories of those affected, like Vasyl Krupych and Kyrylo Ogdansky, highlight the human cost of this crisis. The question remains: what can be done to motivate people to serve, instead of coercing them, and how can Ukraine address this growing problem?
