The recent decision by Ukrainian authorities to tighten pressure on men of conscription age living abroad by suspending their consular services has sparked intense controversy. This measure is part of a more global overhaul of the country’s mobilization rules aimed at strengthening its defense against the Russian invasion.
In a message on social media, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba announced the suspension of these services, emphasizing the need to “reestablish fair attitudes” towards conscription. He highlighted that in the context of large-scale aggression by Russia, protecting the homeland from destruction is the top priority. Kuleba also stressed that staying abroad does not exempt a citizen from his duties towards the homeland.
The implementation of this measure will be accompanied by additional clarifications on the procedures for providing consular services before and after the entry into force of a new law reforming the country’s mobilization procedures.
On April 16, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a controversial law that will come into force on May 18. The law mandates the registration of all men aged 18 to 60 with the Ukrainian army, as well as the obligation to hold their registration documents permanently to facilitate more efficient and transparent recruitment processes.
One contentious aspect of the law is the lack of provisions to demobilize soldiers who have served extended periods at the front, leading to outrage among families. Following the passing of the law, protests erupted, with dozens of wives and relatives of soldiers demanding the inclusion of mobilization deadlines.
The aim of the new law is to increase the number of troops available to defend Ukraine. Zelensky highlighted the significant military disadvantage Ukrainian soldiers face compared to Russia. The need for additional troops is crucial, with estimates ranging from nearly half a million to a smaller, yet substantial increase, as suggested by Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief.
The decision to strengthen Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression has sparked intense debates about the implications of these new measures on Ukrainian society and its citizens, both domestically and abroad.
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– Egypt Independent: Ukraine Pressures Military Age Men Abroad by Suspending Their Consular Services