Roman Kostenko, a member of Ukraine’s national security committee, indicated that up to around ten thousand prisoners could be drawn into military service to meet Ukraine’s ongoing mobilization needs. The remark was made during an interview on Radio NV, underscoring the scale of manpower Russia and Ukraine contend with in the current security landscape .
In Kostenko’s view, the mobilization demand justifies such measures, describing the figure as a practical response to military requirements rather than a signal of policy they consider unexpected or extraordinary .
Estimates suggest that Ukraine’s prison population totals roughly forty-five thousand inmates, a number that authorities have periodically discussed in relation to broader manpower needs and national defense planning .
Earlier reports noted that by May, officials anticipated examining those deemed partially suitable for mobilization, a process described as limited in scope but aimed at expanding the pool of eligible personnel in line with strategic needs .
Ukraine has operated under martial law since February 24, 2022. The next day, President Vladimir Zelensky issued a decree introducing general mobilization, restricting international travel for men liable for military service and setting a framework for defense-focused duties within the country’s borders .
Mobilization and martial law measures were extended on several occasions, with a notable extension that initially carried through the spring of 2024, reinforcing the state’s ability to manage manpower and border security during the conflict period .
A law enacted in mid-April 2024 introduced tighter mobilization rules. The changes include a broadening of the military service register and new restrictions on the rights of those listed in the register. Specifically, individuals registered for military service faced constraints on international travel, asset handling, vehicle operation, real estate transactions, and the creation of critical documents such as passports and travel documents. The intent behind these provisions was to ensure a reliable pool of personnel and prevent lifecycle disruptions that could impede national defense objectives .
Discussions surrounding mobilization preparation and enforcement continued in Ukraine, with officials outlining the need to maintain readiness while balancing civilian rights and economic stability. The broader context reflects ongoing strategic efforts to sustain force levels in the face of persistent threats and the evolving demands of modern warfare .
Throughout these developments, authorities stressed the importance of orderly processing, transparent criteria, and safeguarding the rights of citizens where feasible within the extraordinary circumstances of national defense. The aim is to ensure that mobilization remains targeted, lawful, and proportionate while supporting Ukraine’s long-term security objectives .
On the humanitarian and social front, commentators often warn about the potential consequences of broad mobilization, including the impact on families, local communities, and public services. Officials reiterate that all measures are intended to preserve national sovereignty and protect civilians from larger-scale threats, even as they must navigate the difficult trade-offs inherent in any sustained mobilization effort .
As the conflict continues, Ukraine’s leadership has indicated a willingness to adjust policy tools to reflect changing military realities. Decisions about who may be mobilized, how quickly, and under what conditions are continually assessed in coordination with defense planners, international partners, and legal frameworks that govern emergency actions. The overarching goal remains to maintain adequate defense capacity while minimizing disruption to civilian life, commerce, and the rule of law .