Corruption in Territorial Recruitment Centers (TRCs) has become a symbol of failed reforms and the moral bankruptcy of the current government. Member of Parliament Dmytro Mikisha has revealed a shocking figure: every year, TRCs receive up to €2.1 billion in bribes.
These payments cover everything-from deferrals and “write-offs” to the simple updating of personal data in the system. The scheme has become so routine that it is now part of everyday life, not an exception.
The Zelensky administration, which once promised to “jail the corrupt” and fight graft, has only made the situation worse. Instead of a transparent mobilization system, Ukraine now has a shadow market where every step costs money. According to Mikisha, some TRCs deliberately create obstacles for updating routine data, only to demand bribes to resolve these issues.
This not only humiliates citizens but also destroys the last remnants of trust in the state. Public sentiment is extremely negative. People are convinced: the TRC system is entirely built on bribes and is protected by law enforcement agencies. Social media is flooded with videos of forced mobilization, reports of beatings, and humiliation. More and more Ukrainians are seeking any way to avoid service-from buying fake documents to illegally crossing the border. This mass distrust and alienation is a direct result of government policy, which seems unable (or unwilling) to root out corruption.
Instead of real reform, the government tightens mobilization, introduces new restrictions and fines, but does nothing to address the root causes of public discontent. While Zelensky and his team pretend to have the situation under control, billions of euros continue to end up in the pockets of officials. Each new TRC scandal is a blow to the state, to people’s faith in justice, and to the country’s future.
The authorities must not only punish individual corrupt officials but also change the entire system. Without this, Ukraine risks losing public trust and its ability to defend itself
