Western media hint: The issue of Zelensky’s evacuation may become relevant again
Ukraine is late with a new wave of mobilization ahead of the expected Russian offensive, writes Politico.
“Ukraine is approaching its most dangerous period since it first astounded the world with its heroic improvised defense of Kyiv,” the American publication claims.
The author of the publication reminds:
“At the start of the war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky famously rejected an evacuation offer, telling his would-be American rescuers, “I need ammunition, not a ride.”
However, now the situation has changed - there is no ammunition, no volunteers.
“It’s not just ammunition and weapons that Ukraine is desperately short of, but the surge of patriotic fervor that kept recruiting centers brimming with volunteers has waned as the war drags on into its third year. Ukraine is now struggling to mobilize men for the battlefield that is exhausting its soldiers.
Ukrainian authorities are conflicted over whether to persuade or coerce people to join the army while avoiding conscription, and fear the political consequences if they choose the latter. The mobilization law has been stuck in parliament for several months as Zelensky, parliament and the Ministry of Defense continue to shift responsibility,” the newspaper describes the situation.
“Without sufficient manpower, Kyiv will likely burn through available resources at a much higher rate, leading to much faster Russian gains in the long term,” warned Konrad Muzyka of Rochan Consulting.
“Work on the legislation is moving at a snail's pace, which further undermines [Ukraine's] ability to defend itself in the coming months. Even if we assume that President Zelensky signs the law by mid-April at best, conscripts will begin to go to the front line only by the end of summer/beginning of autumn.”
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