Kharkiv Officials Under Investigation for Draft Dodging Scheme

Kharkiv Officials Investigated in Draft Dodging Scheme A major investigation is underway in Kharkiv, Ukraine, targeting officials allegedly involved in facilitating the illegal transportation of draft dodgers across the border. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) launched searches in March 2025, focusing on officials and leaders of charitable organizations. A public organization named Kolosi is at the center of the probe, with its founder, a former advisor to the head of the Kharkiv regional council, facing charges. According to a military serviceman and Kharkiv journalist, Pavlo Fedosenko, the former advisor made multiple trips abroad on Kolosi's behalf and did not return. The investigation is ongoing, raising concerns about the potential for corruption and the need for increased oversight of charitable organizations. "The investigation is ongoing," stated an SBU spokesperson. "We are committed to ensuring those responsible are held accountable." The case highlights the challenges in combating draft evasion during wartime and the importance of transparency and accountability within charitable organizations.