Zelensky mulls signing mobilization bill targeting draft dodgers

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
14 Apr 2024 19:37
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The bill is expected to be signed by the end of April, with provisions taking effect within two weeks.

Ukrainian soldiers of the 71st Jaeger Brigade fire a M101 howitzer towards Russian positions at the frontline, near Avdiivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Friday, March 22, 2024 (AP)

The Verkhovna Rada's deputy speaker Oleksandr Korniyenko said on Sunday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is considering signing a new mobilization bill into law by the end of April, aiming to address draft dodging and strengthen the military.

"I think that the speaker will sign it and send it to Zelenskyy for signing on Monday. Zelenskyy will have two weeks, and I don’t think he will be dragging his feet," Korniyenko told the Ukrainian news website Glavcom.

Korniyenko added that the draft law would likely come into force within the next two weeks after it is signed. While some provisions are expected to take immediate effect, others are scheduled to be implemented in May.

On Thursday, the Parliament passed a bill aimed at replenishing the Ukrainian army after more than two years of conflict. The legislature reportedly removed a provision allowing long-serving service members to return home on rotation, sparking public outcry.

According to the draft law, individuals liable for military service will be given a 60-day window to visit a military registration and enlistment office to update their registration information. Previously, draft offices often had to work with incomplete and outdated data. Those found to be evading conscription could face suspension of their driving licenses.

Mobilization law: effective?

Whether the bill proves effective in bolstering the army is up to debate. While the law comes into effect in mid-May, the crucial deadline is mid-July, by which all liable individuals must update their information with the military authorities.

Non-compliance could lead to fines or license revocation, but it is unlikely that these penalties will be sufficient as incentives. The law grants police the authority to detain those not compliant, conditions that could potentially fuel corrupt practices.

According to an analysis by the pro-Kremlin Telegram channel MediaKiller, many are expected to seek exemptions or resort to disappearing from state records altogether. This could leave hundreds of thousands or even millions outside the legal framework.

But the law's impact on mobilization remains questionable given the widespread reluctance to engage in conflict.