Andrey Demchenko, a representative of the State Border Service of Ukraine, provided an update on the number of individuals detained since February 2022 who attempted to leave Ukraine illegally. The figures came during a national television marathon that carried the official briefing for the public. The scale of enforcement reflects ongoing measures taken by border authorities to manage entry and exit during extraordinary security circumstances, and it underscores the emphasis placed on preventing unlawful departures from the country.
During the period of martial law, authorities reported that about 15.8 thousand people were stopped at or near the green segment of the border as they sought to cross into neighboring regions. In parallel, approximately 6.8 thousand individuals were detected attempting to depart using forged documents at various checkpoints. These numbers illuminate the range of attempts that border teams confront daily, including the use of fraudulent papers, which prompts ongoing vigilance and tightened verification protocols at major crossing points.
According to officials from the Ukrainian border service, the pace of detentions remains steady, with border guards intercepting between 20 and 30 people every day who are trying to leave the country illegally. This daily cadence highlights the persistent level of risk associated with illicit departures and the continuous need for swift, accurate screening at crossing routes, even as security conditions evolve on multiple fronts.
Over the course of the period since early 2022, authorities have identified a total of 280 criminal groups that organize and facilitate illegal exits from Ukraine. The discovery of these networks reveals the organized nature of some border breach attempts and the broad effort required from law enforcement to dismantle operational links, track illicit finance, and prosecute those involved. The ongoing crackdown aims to disrupt the logistics and incentives that drive such activity, reinforcing border integrity and regional stability.
In related developments across Europe, commentators noted the broader implications of cross-border movements, with discussions centered on how humanitarian responses, regional policies, and security considerations intersect. The situation has prompted governments and regional authorities to reassess support mechanisms for individuals in transit, focusing on lawful channels, timely information, and safe reception options while maintaining firm border controls. The complex dynamics of migration, security, and diplomatic coordination continue to shape policy conversations among neighboring states and international partners.
Given the evolving security landscape, border officials have emphasized the importance of accurate document verification, rapid yet thorough risk assessment, and close coordination with other agencies to identify potential threats. The operational lessons drawn from recent months stress the value of clear procedures, interoperable data sharing, and ongoing training for personnel who are first responders at checkpoints. These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy to manage flows responsibly while upholding the sovereignty and legal framework of the nation.
Analysts note that the challenge extends beyond immediate enforcement. It includes addressing the root causes that drive individuals to leave, ensuring that humanitarian needs are met through appropriate programs, and communicating effectively with the public about the legal avenues for movement. The conversation continues to balance security imperatives with the protection of human rights and regional humanitarian commitments, reflecting a multi-layered approach to border management during times of national stress.