«The Rada needs to create a system that people can trust» — Volker on mobilization in Ukraine

The ongoing war in Ukraine has prompted discussions in the Ukrainian Parliament regarding the conscription age amidst a critical shortage of manpower on the front lines. The debate has intensified as the country grapples with the challenge of defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In a recent interview on Ukraine Calling, Brian Bonner raised concerns about the current conscription practices, drawing parallels with historical precedents such as the Vietnam War. He questioned whether it was prudent for the most able-bodied individuals aged 18 to 27 to remain inactive while the nation faced existential threats.

Kurt Volker, a former former U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine, refrained from providing a definitive answer, acknowledging that the decision rested with Ukrainian society. He emphasized the need for fairness in any legislative changes regarding conscription and mobilization processes.

«Many Ukrainians feel that the conscription and mobilization systems that previously existed were operating unfairly. So, the Rada needs to create a system that people can trust and believe is fair», — noted Volker

However, Liudmyla Dolhonovska, Chief of Staff at the American University Kyiv, expressed her views on the matter, highlighting the complexity of the issue. She emphasized the need for a balanced approach that takes into account Ukraine’s tumultuous history and the trauma inflicted on past generations by wars and occupations.

«We lost a lot of male population during the 20th century. And that’s a big trauma for future generations. And why I’m talking about balance – because we need to save people somehow, these young people, give them a chance to gain education to create some future», — she emphasized

Dolhonovska advocated for creating conditions that would incentivize voluntary enlistment while ensuring fairness and respect for individual rights. She stressed the importance of providing adequate support and motivation for those who choose to serve in the armed forces, acknowledging the sacrifices they make to defend their country.

Read the full interview – Volker: There’s no clear goal from US — «we want Ukraine to defeat Russia»

The proposed legislation currently under consideration in the Ukrainian Parliament aims to address these concerns by revising the conscription and mobilization processes. It seeks to strike a balance between national security imperatives and the rights and well-being of Ukrainian citizens, particularly the younger generation.