Can Ukraine mobilize men who fled abroad: detailed explanation

At the end of 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers submitted a draft law to the Verkhovna Rada that would introduce significant changes to the mobilization process. At the same time, the country's military and political leadership began discussing the possibility of returning conscripts from abroad.

Currently, the possibility of electronic notification of men who have traveled abroad is being considered. OBOZ.UA found out whether men abroad can be mobilized and what they need to know.

According to Defense Minister Rustem Umierov, if a decision to send calls to territorial recruitment centers is made, they will be sent via e-mail to persons liable for military service, including those abroad.

He also clarified that the defense ministry is considering the possibility of notifying men liable for military service of the need to report to the Territorial Centre for recruitment and Social Support via e-mail. Umierov emphasized that such invitations will be extended even to Ukrainians who are outside the country.

Currently, the Ministry of Defense plans to register Ukrainians who are liable for military service and live abroad and to encourage them to return and join the ranks of the Armed Forces. At the same time, Umierov said that the government is working on the issue of possible restrictions on some rights of Ukrainians abroad who do not register for military service. But so far, consultations with the Ministry of Justice and law enforcement agencies are ongoing.

MP Vadym Ivchenko said that all men must receive a military registration card and undergo re-identification at the Territorial Centre for recruitment and and Social Support. In addition, the MP clarified that if a person is abroad, they must also undergo this identification. Otherwise, such a Ukrainian may face certain consequences.

According to the MP, there will be changes in banking services as well. In particular, the bank will also request a new identification, but this identification must include this type of military registration.

As a reminder, the new draft law on mobilization contains a list of prohibitions and penalties for evaders, and also reduces the list of people who can receive a deferral from mobilization.

Earlier, it was reported that according to the new draft law, in addition to administrative and criminal liability, a Ukrainian who avoids military service may face material restrictions.

As previously reported, the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, said that the draft law on mobilization submitted by the government to the parliament contains provisions that contradict the Constitution of Ukraine. The Ombudsman's Office will scrutinize this document when it is submitted for approval.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!