Staff Reports
Ukraine has made it clear that it will not force citizens to return to the country for military mobilization against Russia's invasion, regardless of age or gender. Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna has confirmed that there are no plans to impose travel restrictions or compel citizens to return to a nation at war. While she acknowledged the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict, she reiterated Ukraine's commitment to continue fighting for victory.
Ukraine's military needs more personnel after two years of war and increasing calls to allow battle-weary veterans to rotate out of frontline duty. To address this, Ukraine has enacted a mobilization law. Under martial law, most men between 18 and 60 are forbidden to leave the country, and officials are currently assessing how many fit men are available for mobilization as the war drags into its third year.
As part of its strategy to boost military recruitment, Ukraine has opened a new recruitment center in Kyiv. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has also announced plans to halt passport renewals for around 860,000 Ukrainian men living abroad, highlighting their duty to serve their country during wartime. This move to encourage the return of military-aged men has garnered some support from European leaders, but it has also raised questions about its compliance with EU law. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda stressed the importance of Ukraine's mobilization efforts while cautioning that they must align with EU regulations. Another Lithuanian official questioned how Ukraine's approach aligns with the temporary protection status granted to Ukrainian expatriates by the EU.
Estonia's Ministry of Internal Affairs also expressed concerns, stating that they would not force Ukrainian citizens living in Estonia to return to Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict. Following these reservations, Ukraine's Foreign Ministry clarified that men of military age who have updated their personal information as required by law will still be eligible for consular services.
Ukraine's decision not to force citizens to return for military mobilization underscores the complexities and sensitivities involved in dealing with the ongoing conflict with Russia. The country's approach aims to balance the need to bolster its military forces with respect for individual rights and international laws.
