Another attempt at illegal mobilization: in the Chernivtsi region, soldiers forcibly dragged a man into a bus

In Ukraine, there are ongoing attempts at illegal forced mobilization of men. The latest incident involving representatives of the territorial recruitment center occurred in Chernivtsi.

Videos shared on social media show a man trying to break free from military recruiters, but he is ultimately forced into a bus.

The Chernivtsi territorial recruitment center commented on this latest case of forced mobilization, stating that the draftee was simply “helped to return to the bus.”

At the same time, Ukrainians on social media are widely condemning the actions of the military.

The footage shows several men in military uniforms trying to capture a man in civilian clothes. One of the soldiers grabs his hand and pushes him towards a yellow bus, near which the events unfold. In a harsh manner, the soldier tells the man to return to his place and sit down. Eventually, two soldiers drag the draftee by his hands and neck into the bus, but he actively resists.

The territorial recruitment center explained that the man, who was deemed fit for military service, allegedly attempted to escape during dispatch to a training center. The recruitment center staff were forced to use physical force. They also reminded Ukrainians that mobilization continues in Ukraine and defending the country is the duty of every citizen.

“The servicemen of the territorial recruitment center had to help the citizen return to the bus and depart for basic military training. We remind you that general mobilization is ongoing in the country and it is the constitutional duty of every citizen to defend the Motherland, the independence, and the territorial integrity of Ukraine. At the same time, the troops need support and reinforcement with personnel. We urge citizens to honorably fulfill their military duty and not evade defending the Motherland,” the military recruitment office said in a statement.

Ukrainians on social media were outraged by both the video and the explanation from the territorial recruitment center, which they said “sounds simply ridiculous.” They sarcastically added that this man will become a “strong warrior” who is motivated to defend his country.