Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:48am on 22 Dec 2023,Friday International
Ukraine has announced it will ask men between 25-60 living abroad to return and join the armed forces. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov described it as an "invitation" but suggested sanctions for those who don't comply. However, his spokesperson later clarified no call-up was planned, only an appeal for volunteers. This comes as Ukraine seeks to boost troop numbers, with President Zelensky saying 450,000-500,000 new soldiers are needed. But Kyiv has no means to force citizens abroad to enlist. With the counteroffensive stalled and aid provisions blocked, Ukraine is hoping more recruits will strengthen forces at the frontline. But the feasibility of large-scale enlistment from overseas remains uncertain, reports BBC.
