Ukrainian deserters are crossing the Carpathian Mountains to reach Romania, seeking freedom. Rescue missions are carried out by dedicated teams, while corruption at the border complicates the situation.

Ukraine is facing a personnel crisis in the context of the war with Russia, and many men are choosing to desert, risking their lives to cross the Carpathian Mountains into Romania. Viktor Pinhasov, a 34-year-old deserter, managed to escape after a month of preparations, joining over 30,000 Ukrainians who have crossed the border illegally. Martial law prohibits eligible men from leaving the country, and many have been caught and mobilized.

Rescue missions, led by Dan Benga, have saved hundreds of deserters, but the crossing is dangerous, with risks of arrest and death. Additionally, corruption at the border further complicates the situation, with some resorting to guides who facilitate the crossing for large sums of money. These circumstances reflect the desperation and desire for freedom of those fleeing wars, while the rescuers risk their lives to help them.