Dozens of Ukrainian Soldiers Desert Training in France

Several dozen soldiers from Ukraine's 155th Mechanized Brigade deserted during their training in France, with reports indicating that as many as 1,700 soldiers may have gone AWOL before engaging in combat. While the French military described the number of desertions as 'very marginal' given the total number of trainees, they clarified that desertion is not a criminal offense in France, leaving Ukrainian authorities with only disciplinary powers over the soldiers. The brigade, primarily made up of conscripts with no combat experience, has faced issues of organizational chaos, leading to high desertion rates. Ukrainian military officials, including Commander Mykhailo Drapatyi, acknowledged these challenges and indicated the need for preventative measures. Additionally, reports suggest that the brigade, originally intended to have around 5,800 troops, has been significantly depleted, raising concerns about its readiness for combat near Pokrovsk against Russian forces.