The implementation of Ukraine’s controversial new mobilisation law begins

The controversial mobilisation law in Ukraine has taken effect as Kyiv grapples with the urgent need to recruit more troops in the face of a new Russian offensive threatening Kharkiv, the country’s second-largest city.

The revised legislation, which came into force on Saturday, aims to streamline the process of identifying conscripts nationwide. It also includes incentives for soldiers, such as cash bonuses and financial assistance for housing or a car. However, some analysts have raised concerns about the financial feasibility of these benefits for Ukraine.

The law was passed in mid-April after months of delays, coinciding with a reduction in the draft age from 27 to 25. These measures underscore the immense strain that over two years of conflict with Russia have placed on Ukraine’s military, which is struggling to maintain its front lines amidst dwindling ranks and scarce supplies of weapons and ammunition.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed two additional laws on Friday, one allowing prisoners to join the army and another increasing fines for draft evasion fivefold. These controversial measures highlight the desperate need for manpower in Ukraine’s armed forces.

As Russian troops advance in a new northeastern offensive, Ukraine’s military is under increasing pressure. The situation has forced some Ukrainian men to take extreme risks, including attempting to swim across rivers to neighboring countries in a bid to escape the conflict.

With the war showing no signs of abating, Ukraine’s efforts to bolster its forces and defend against Russian aggression remain a top priority for the embattled nation.