---
title: "How many Ukrainian soldiers returned from AWOL: program results and leading brigades"
description: "Thousands of Ukrainian soldiers returned from AWOL under a simplified procedure, comparable to several brigades. The Ministry of Defense notes the restoration of their rights and the leadership of the National Guard brigades Khartia and Azov."
date: 2026-10-09T01:16:00.000Z
lang: en
url: https://xab.info/en/posts/how-many-ukrainian-soldiers-returned-from-awol-program-results-and-leading-brigades
tags: [ukraine-army, military, szch, mod-ukraine, azov, khurtia]
publisher: "XAB.info"
---

# How many Ukrainian soldiers returned from AWOL: program results and leading brigades

![Ukrainian soldiers returned from AWOL to their units](https://xab.info/media/2026/10/09/skolko-voennyh-vernulos-iz-szch-i-kakie-brigady-v-etom-lidiruyut/skolko-voennyh-vernulos-iz-szch-i-kakie-brigady-v-etom-lidiruyut-1.webp)

## 🎯 Key Points

- Thousands of soldiers returned to the army from AWOL via a simplified procedure
- The number of returnees is comparable to two or three brigades
- National Guard brigades 'Khartia' and 'Azov' led in receiving fighters
- Servicemen had their monetary and material allowances fully restored

Thousands of Ukrainian servicemen have returned to their units under a simplified procedure after unauthorized departure from their units (AWOL). According to the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, the total number of returning fighters is comparable to the personnel of two to three full-fledged combat brigades, significantly strengthening the army's defense capabilities amidst ongoing large-scale hostilities.

### Essence of the program and restoration of rights

The simplified return mechanism allowed many servicemen to legalize their status without severe legal consequences if they decided to return to military duty. Upon returning to their units, the fighters were promptly restored all types of allowances, including monetary, clothing, and food provisions. Most of them immediately took up combat positions, utilizing their accumulated combat experience and professional skills.

### Leading units and the position of the Ministry of Defense

The defense agency emphasizes the positive effect of this initiative, noting the high motivation and readiness of the returning defenders to perform complex tasks. The Ministry of Defense expressed special gratitude to those units and commanders who facilitated the consideration of reports and the integration of fighters back into the collective. Famous brigades of the National Guard of Ukraine — 'Khartia' and 'Azov' — were noted as leaders in receiving returning servicemen.

### Further steps and significance for the frontline

The return of experienced personnel to the frontline is viewed by the military leadership as a strategically important step to maintain the combat readiness of units. The program continues to operate, and the command urges other servicemen who committed AWOL to follow this example for the sake of common victory and state defense.

## 🔍 Fact-Check Verification

- [Сколько военных вернулось из СЗЧ и какие бригады в этом лидируют](https://www.rbc.ua/ukr/news/skilki-viyskovih-povernulis-zi-szch-ta-ki-1791507389.html) - Данные полностью подтверждены официальными заявлениями Министерства обороны Украины.

## ❓ FAQ

### Q: How many fighters have returned from AWOL?
**A:** According to the Ministry of Defense, thousands of servicemen have returned from AWOL, comparable to the personnel of two to three brigades.

### Q: Which brigades are leading in the return of military personnel?
**A:** The Ministry of Defense specifically highlighted the National Guard of Ukraine units 'Khartia' and 'Azov'.

### Q: Are payments restored to fighters who return?
**A:** Yes, upon returning to their unit, servicemen have their monetary and other types of allowances fully resumed.