Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov has stated that Ukrainian men aged 25-60 living abroad, including in Germany, should report to the recruiting centers of the Ukrainian Armed Forces next year.
This mobilization effort is part of Ukraine's strategy to bolster its military forces against the Russian invasion. Umerov indicated that sanctions would be applied to those who fail to comply with this requirement.
In an interview with Die Welt TV, Bild, and Politico newspapers, Umerov referred to this mobilization as an "invitation," but emphasized the possibility of sanctions for non-compliance. The details of these sanctions and the nature of the "invitation" are still under discussion.
This announcement comes amid plans by the Ukrainian military to mobilize an additional 450,000 to 500,000 soldiers. However, the financial and political implications of such a large-scale mobilization are yet to be fully outlined.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has described the issue of mobilization as "sensitive," reflecting the complex nature of mobilizing citizens living abroad.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine as it continues to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity against Russian aggression. The call for Ukrainians living abroad to join the military effort underscores the nation's determination to strengthen its defense capabilities in the face of a prolonged conflict.
