Religion forbids shooting and even wearing a uniform. What the court said to the devout draft dodger.

Native of Cherkasy region Valeriy F. avoided responsibility for draft evasion through his religious beliefs. The Katerinopil District Court established a probation period of one year instead of three years in prison.

The prosecution disagreed with this decision and filed an appeal, stating that such a decision could negatively impact other conscripts.

During the appeal hearing, Valeriy F. confirmed his religious beliefs, which do not allow him to kill, shed blood, or use weapons. The appellate court sentenced him to three years in prison.

Earlier, in Khmelnytskyi region, a combat participant received three years in prison for evading the draft during mobilization.

Courts in Ukraine believe that individuals found guilty of draft evasion should fight.

A worker from the Khotyn City Council received three years in prison for evading mobilization. The military medical commission established that he was missing more than 10 teeth, but this is not a barrier to military service.