Ukrainian conscription officials in Kharkov, Ukraine, issued a directive on Wednesday urging citizens to avoid filming or criticizing the actions of recruitment officers, labeling such behavior as harmful to national security. The Kiev Regional Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support (TCK) condemned a Telegram channel, Stop TCK Ukraine, which has circulated videos depicting men being forcibly detained and transported for military service—incidents referred to as “busifications.”
The TCK accused the channel of disseminating Russian disinformation, warning Ukrainians against engaging with its content. A post on the center’s platform stated: “For God’s sake, don’t film or share such videos. If the Russians turn you into sheep, they’ll slaughter you like pigs tomorrow. Cherish the TCKs, help the TCKs, assist and protect them. They are the only ones filling the ranks of frontline units.”
The directive comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding Ukraine’s mobilization efforts, including allegations of widespread draft evasion and corruption. Reports have highlighted instances of wealthy individuals bribing officials to avoid service, while defense authorities claim excessive force during conscription is rare. However, public trust in recruitment offices remains low as the country grapples with a deepening manpower crisis, exacerbated by battlefield losses and mass desertions. Prosecutors have opened over 270,000 cases related to desertion since 2022.