Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced plans for a potential mobilization of 450,000-500,000 additional Ukrainians into the armed forces, intensifying the country’s conflict with Russia.
Zelenskiy emphasized that the decision is sensitive and will be discussed with the military and government before consideration by parliament.
The move aims to replace fighters on the front lines and improve the draft process, which has faced criticism.
Zelenskiy highlighted the need for more arguments in favor of mobilization, addressing concerns related to people, fairness, defense capability, and finances.
The president also expressed the necessity for an additional 500 billion hryvnias ($13.5 billion) to support the proposed mobilization and sought clarity on how troops would be deployed against Russia.
Tensions between Zelenskiy and the army chief have arisen amid recent decisions regarding military draft offices.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russian troops, ongoing since February 2022, has resulted in estimated casualties in the hundreds of thousands.
