President Zelensky: The Ukrainian military is looking for an additional 500,000 personnel
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced plans for the military to mobilize an additional 500,000 individuals as the conflict with Russia approaches its second anniversary. Speaking at a news conference in Kyiv, Zelensky stated that his commanders were seeking "450,000-500,000 individuals," acknowledging the sensitivity and costliness of the matter. He expressed the need for more details before endorsing the move, hinting that there were already 500,000 soldiers stationed on the front lines.
Zelensky's announcement follows setbacks in aid from both the United States and the European Union. Recently, Republicans in the US Congress blocked a $60 billion military package for Ukraine, and the US government indicated limited ability to provide further assistance without Congressional action. Hungary also obstructed the EU's €50 billion financial aid deal last week. Despite these challenges, EU leaders assured that Ukraine would not be left without support.
Ukraine is grappling with an ammunition shortage in its ongoing struggle against Russian forces that invaded on a full scale in February 2022. The Kyiv counter-offensive slowed as winter began, raising concerns that Russia could overpower Ukraine.
Olena Zelenska, Ukraine's first lady, expressed concerns in a recent BBC interview, warning that Ukrainians faced "mortal danger" without additional Western support. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Moscow's intention to persist with the invasion, asserting that all goals would be achieved. He acknowledged challenges in the Russian armed forces, including issues with air defense systems and communication, emphasizing the need to enhance drone production.
President Zelensky conducted his end-of-year news conference in the Ukrainian capital on Tuesday, keeping the time and venue confidential from the general public. Ukrainian and foreign media invited to the event received details in their confirmation letters.
Dressed in his distinctive military-style attire, the Ukrainian leader addressed a variety of questions during the two-hour session. Zelensky disclosed that Ukraine's top military commanders had put forward a proposal to mobilize an additional 450,000-500,000 individuals for the country's war effort.
Describing this as a "very serious number," he emphasized the need for a more thorough discussion before committing to the plan. Zelensky expressed the necessity for specifics, outlining concerns such as the fate of Ukraine's million-strong army, the situation for those defending the state for the past two years, and issues related to rotation and holidays. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive plan.
However, he categorically ruled out any proposals to mobilize women for military service. Mr. Zelensky remained resolute when questioned by Jessica Parker of the BBC about whether Ukraine could be ready to start losing the battle. "No," came the response. It's the expected response, but our source in Kyiv adds that he's not the only one who has shown this kind of resolve. She continues, "A lot of people I've met will not tolerate anything other than driving out their Russian invaders."
