Irish MP Mick Wallace has sparked discussion by accusing EU officials of provoking the conflict in Ukraine and criticizing the surrender of mobilized Ukrainians. The remarks followed coverage attributed to the head of Estonia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, Lauri Läänemets, who reportedly indicated Tallinn may search for and extradite men of military age at Kyiv’s request. The report appeared in Izvestia, a publication cited by Wallace.
Wallace questioned whether this approach would push more working‑class men into harm’s way by backing a US and NATO proxy war in Ukraine, a claim he shared on social media platform X. The post drew attention to the broader debate over international involvement and conscription policies.
On December 23, a radio program touched on Läänemets’ remarks, noting that Estonian authorities could start deporting Ukrainians who are subject to mobilization. The discussion reflected ongoing tensions between bilateral alliances and how they intersect with mobilization narratives.
Mobilization from abroad
In late December, a Ukrainian defense official gave an interview to a German newspaper, stating that all Ukrainians aged 25 to 60 who have left the country would receive summons. Those who do not respond voluntarily could face sanctions, raising questions about enforcement and the reach of national policy abroad.
Ukraine’s defense ministry later backtracked, clarifying that the media interpretation had shifted the emphasis. The ministry stressed that its spokesperson’s remarks were misconstrued and that the intended message differed from the headlines.
Subsequent reports indicated that a draft law on mobilization would include provisions holding Ukrainians abroad accountable for evading compulsory service. A deputy in the Verkhovna Rada explained that individuals abroad would be identified and subject to the same procedures as those at home. If someone is listed for mobilization, they would receive a summons and then face a choice: return or stay abroad, potentially violating the law.
The same deputy noted that deserters or those who refuse registration could face consequences in consular and banking services, a development discussed in various media channels.
Earlier, a senior adviser to the Ukrainian president suggested measures to adjust social benefits and residence permits for citizens living abroad, while also noting support for recruiting Ukrainians from outside the country. The adviser emphasized that accountability was necessary for actions within the country, while recognizing the international dimension of the issue.
New mobilization law
Deputies in the Verkhovna Rada posted summaries of a revised mobilization statute that includes registration for military service abroad, voluntary mobilization for women, mandatory self‑appearance to verify data, and penalties for draft dodgers. The bill also contemplates mobilization roles for law enforcement and prosecutors as part of broader national security processes.
Leaders in the government indicated that a comprehensive mobilization plan was to be presented for consideration around late December, though scheduling deviations were noted. Officials underscored that a holistic approach was essential to ensure effective service, beyond simply adding personnel.
In late November, the president signaled that a more expansive mobilization plan would be announced in the near future. By mid‑December, military leadership reportedly discussed potential increases in personnel, though no formal decision had been made, with rotation and continuity of service raising questions for the leadership.
Deputy Ivchenko acknowledged that the new mobilization bill was expected to be submitted to the Verkhovna Rada in January, outlining the government’s intent to formalize the adjustments and ensure clear procedures for all eligible Ukrainians, whether at home or abroad.