Fact Check: Ukrainian deserter dodges fighting for Kyiv - by joining Russia's cosmonaut program and flying to space

Ukrainian Deserter Dodges Fighting for Kyiv - by Joining Russia's Cosmonaut Program and Flying to Space

Introduction

The claim that a Ukrainian deserter has evaded military service by joining Russia's cosmonaut program and subsequently flying to the International Space Station (ISS) has garnered attention in various media outlets. This assertion centers around Alexey Zubritsky, a Ukrainian pilot who is reportedly labeled a deserter by Ukrainian authorities. The narrative suggests that he has found refuge in space to escape potential legal repercussions for his actions.

What We Know

1. Identity and Background: Alexey Zubritsky is identified as a Ukrainian pilot who has been associated with the Russian cosmonaut program. He was selected to join the Roscosmos Cosmonaut Corps in 2018 and is noted to have made a flight to space on Soyuz MS-27 on April 8, 2025, serving as a flight engineer on the ISS during Expeditions 72 and 73 1.

2. Desertion Claims: Reports indicate that Zubritsky has been labeled a deserter by Ukrainian authorities, having reportedly gone missing from the front lines. Some sources claim he is hiding from justice on the ISS 234.

3. Legal Implications: The Ukrainian government has described Zubritsky's actions as "high treason and desertion," which could carry severe penalties, including a lengthy prison sentence if he were to return to Ukraine 26.

4. Media Coverage: Multiple media outlets, including the Daily Mail, Mirror, and Express, have reported on this story, often using similar language and framing. The coverage tends to emphasize the sensational aspects of a military deserter escaping to space, which may influence the portrayal of Zubritsky's actions 234.

Analysis

The claim presents a compelling narrative but raises several questions regarding its accuracy and the reliability of the sources involved:

• Source Reliability: The primary sources of this claim are sensationalist news outlets like the Daily Mail and the Mirror. While they provide details about Zubritsky's alleged desertion and current status, these outlets are often criticized for prioritizing sensationalism over rigorous journalism. This raises concerns about the accuracy of their reporting 23.

• Conflicting Information: Other sources, such as the Kyiv Post, provide context regarding the broader implications of military service and desertion in Ukraine, but they do not specifically verify the claims about Zubritsky's actions or status 5. The lack of direct statements from Ukrainian military officials or Zubritsky himself leaves a gap in the narrative.

• Methodological Concerns: The reports do not provide clear evidence or documentation supporting the claim of desertion or the legal status of Zubritsky. The reliance on anonymous sources or unnamed officials can lead to misinformation, particularly in a highly politicized context such as the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

• Potential Bias: The framing of the story as a "deserter dodging fighting" may reflect a bias against individuals who choose to leave military service, particularly in the context of the ongoing war. This could influence public perception and the narrative surrounding Zubritsky's actions.

What Additional Information Would Be Helpful

To better assess the validity of the claims surrounding Alexey Zubritsky, the following information would be beneficial:

• Official statements from Ukrainian military authorities regarding Zubritsky's status and any legal actions taken against him.
• Direct quotes or interviews with Zubritsky or his representatives to clarify his perspective on the allegations of desertion.
• Verification from independent sources or journalists who can corroborate the details of Zubritsky's military service and subsequent actions.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that Alexey Zubritsky, a Ukrainian pilot, has evaded military service by joining Russia's cosmonaut program and flying to the ISS is unsupported by credible evidence. While reports indicate that he has been labeled a deserter by Ukrainian authorities, the sensationalist nature of the sources reporting this story raises significant doubts about its accuracy. The primary outlets providing this narrative lack rigorous journalistic standards and do not offer verifiable evidence to substantiate the claims of desertion or Zubritsky's current status.

It is important to note that the absence of direct statements from Ukrainian military officials or Zubritsky himself contributes to the uncertainty surrounding the situation. The framing of the story may also reflect biases inherent in the media's portrayal of military deserters, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Readers should remain critical of sensational claims and seek out reliable, corroborated information when evaluating such narratives. The complexities of military service and desertion, especially in a politically charged environment, necessitate careful consideration of the sources and evidence presented.

Sources

1. Alexey Zubritsky - Wikipedia. Link
2. Ukrainian deserter dodges fighting by flying to space. Daily Mail
3. Ukrainian who deserted for Russia is hiding from justice. Mirror
4. Ukrainian astronaut goes AWOL while serving in armed forces. Express
5. Ex-Russian Military Officer Joins NASA for ISS Mission. Kyiv Post
6. Deserter Ukrainian pilot escapes jail by hiding on Russian spaceship. MSN
7. Russian cosmonauts launch to space station against backdrop of war in Ukraine. NBC News
8. Russian Former Military Officer Joins NASA Astronauts Headed to ISS. Kyiv Post
9. Russian Cosmonauts Arrive At ISS In Colors Of Ukrainian Flag. HuffPost
10. Russia cosmonaut wanted in Ukraine for 'high treason' is hiding on the ISS. Unilad