Ukraine MoD: Troops equivalent to 2-3 brigades returned under simplified AWOL amnesty

Thousands of Ukrainian servicemen who had gone AWOL returned to their units under a simplified reinstatement program. The Defense Ministry says their numbers are equivalent to the personnel of two or three brigades. The ministry stated that a significant number returned to combat positions -- people with service experience and skills needed by units. All had their pay and benefits restored. The top five units by actual returns included the 20th Separate Drone Brigade, the 53rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade, the 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, and the 429th Separate Drone Brigade Achilles. Units of the National Guard also received special mention. The simplified return program was available until September 20 for servicemen who had gone AWOL before June 12, 2026, allowing them to choose their new posting and rejoin via an expedited process.