Ukraine has manpower for a decade, but many fear mobilisation

Ukraine has enough people to wage war against Russia for the next ten years, according to Oleksandr Merezhko, chairman of parliament’s foreign affairs committee.

The reality of mobilisation, however, is far more complex, he says. The Independent reports that the problem, in his view, lies not in a shortage of men but in psychological barriers and reluctance to join the army. Many fear mobilisation and see it as a ‘one-way street’, as they do not see a clear system of rotation or the prospect of returning to normal life.

According to available data, up to two million people are avoiding conscription, with hundreds of thousands of cases of desertion on record. The situation is further complicated by corruption in the army, which undermines confidence in the military system.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian leadership is preparing for a long-term conflict that could last several more years, amid fears of a possible erosion of support from the United States. This would fundamentally affect the future course of the war.

(pir)