Draft Evasion Scheme Exposed at Chernivtsi Military Hospital: Soldiers Worked at Markets and Auto Shops

Ukrainian law enforcement agencies have dismantled a draft evasion ring operating out of the Chernivtsi Military Hospital. The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), in coordination with the Specialized Defense Prosecutor's Office of the Western Region, detained the hospital's chief and two subordinate servicemen who were found working civilian jobs instead of fulfilling their military duties.

Civilian Jobs in Lieu of Military Service

According to sources from Ukrainska Pravda, the primary suspect is Colonel of Medical Service Vasyl Rohatiuk, who was serving as the acting commander of the military unit. Investigators revealed that the illicit scheme had been active until March 2026.

Instead of serving in the military, the two detained soldiers were engaged in private civilian employment. One was discovered selling women's scarves at a market kiosk allegedly connected to the commander's inner circle, while the other was working as a mechanic at an auto repair shop.

Investigation and Financial Motives

The SBI released an official statement regarding the mechanics of the evasion: "According to the investigation, the official allowed certain servicemen not to perform their duties and to go about their own business. They agreed on this through acquaintances or relatives. At the same time, information about possible payment for such 'loyalty' is being checked."

Legal Consequences and Charges

Following the exposure of the network, all three individuals have been formally notified of suspicion and placed in pre-trial detention, with the option to post bail. Furthermore, a court has officially suspended Rohatiuk from his command upon the prosecutors' request.

The suspects are facing severe charges under the Criminal Code of Ukraine:

• The two servicemen: Charged with evasion of military service under martial law (Part 2 of Article 28, Part 4 of Article 409).
• The hospital commander: Charged with facilitating the evasion (Part 5 of Article 27, Part 2 of Article 28, Part 4 of Article 409).

Pre-trial investigations remain ongoing as authorities work to determine if other military personnel were involved in the scheme.