Zelensky warns against the rapid return of men from abroad

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejects the simplistic view that some Ukrainian men are abroad during the war. In an interview with Czech Radio, he emphasized that Ukraine has survived mainly thanks to the millions of people who have remained in the country, according to the Unian news agency.

At the same time, he admitted that the army suffers from a shortage of personnel and that many soldiers do not have the opportunity to rotate or rest, which he considers unsustainable.

However, Zelensky pointed out that deploying everyone who left the country to the front line is not an automatic solution. According to him, trust between soldiers is key on the battlefield, and it is uncertain whether those who left for various reasons would be able to gain this trust. He understands the emotions of the soldiers but warns against hasty decisions.

The president admitted that the return of young and physically fit men would ease the situation for the army. He also responded to calls from European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who are demanding that Ukraine keep young men at home and enlist them in military service.

(mja)