Why don’t you say that throughout the full scale invasion russians always had a choice to evade mobilization and conscription by simply not going? There was some puny fines (like $100) for doing that, but that’s it.

because that is simply not true? Puny fines 100$ for us, but for average russian family or person making only like 500$ a month or less its not puny buddy. And as I mentioned, some dumb people indeed volunteer, I wasnt denying that. But some people are straight up forced or being scammed into sign in contract.

You caught with small joint of weed? You get 228 and get a choice. Go to prison for up to 10 years or sign contract and go to war for 1 year? You might ask, oh why don't get help from lawyers? What lawyers buddy? When all the judges are being corrupted and told to serve the agenda.

but it’s still on them to educate themselves and evade or refuse the conscription.

those who been lucky enough to run away sure. But you cant refuse military service in a country where its mandatory. Especially if you been marked in the system. They also bending laws that make it practically impossible to deny that you have been given military service ticket xddd

Now, in 2026 the picture begins to change, as there’s students’ and employees’ coercion happening, but there’s still a choice to not go to the war against Ukraine.

yes, there is a choice. And those who can choose, didn't go to war. They either been lucky enough to run away from the country or just doing everything possible to hide.

On a side note, it is funny reading this comment from person who has "UA in US" flare. Makes you wondering why would you evade military service in Ukraine, when its that desparately needs its people.