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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday criticized medical checks for Ukraine’s military, which he says fall prey to “systemic” corruption. Civilians largely avoid military service by paying bribes or leaving for foreign countries.

Ukraine has recently stepped up its crackdown on corruption, while the country’s armed forces are launching a counter-offensive to retake Russian-controlled territory. Fighting corruption is an important factor in Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union.

According to Zelensky, the National Security and Defense Council analyzes information about false medical waivers, commissions and departures of recruits abroad. Investigations are still ongoing.

“There are examples of regions where the number of exemptions from military service due to the decisions of the Medical Committee has increased tenfold since February last year,” Zelensky said in his daily video address.

According to the president, it relates to bribes ranging from 2,750 to 13,750 euros, paid to officials in different positions in different regions. There should also be a separate analysis of the number of people who have left Ukraine thanks to medical exemptions.

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