Ukraine is gearing up for a new counteroffensive against Russia, but its military is facing a recruitment challenge. According to The Wall Street Journal, a growing number of young men are trying to avoid being drafted to fight against Russia. Despite strong support for the Ukrainian military effort, many potential recruits are reluctant to join up. This might be why authorities have started to rely on enlistment officers who wear military clothing and give out summons in public spaces, such as cafes and restaurants. Meanwhile, some men are avoiding these places for fear of being drafted. Others are taking more drastic measures, including fleeing the country. The Journal reports that more than 9,000 men left Ukraine in 2022 using documents for volunteers and aid workers without coming back within the allowed timeframe. One man said he spent almost $10,000 on three different schemes to leave, the last of which – posing as an aid worker - worked. The issue of draft evasion comes as Ukraine prepares to launch a new counteroffensive to push Russia back, following months of stalemate.