Photo: Mykhailo Fedorov / Facebook
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov says mobilization reform should begin by addressing the problem of unauthorized absences from military units (AWOL) and changing how the armed forces recruit personnel.
"First, we need to solve the AWOL problem. If more than 200,000 people are absent without authorization while you're constantly searching for new recruits, the logic of mobilization simply doesn't work. Second, there is the large number of people currently wanted by the authorities," Fedorov said.
According to the former minister, a significant part of the state apparatus is now focused on locating draft evaders and carrying out mobilization, but this approach does not ensure the military receives well-prepared personnel. Instead, he argues for creating a system in which citizens know in advance when they will be required to serve and clearly understand the conditions of military service.
Fedorov also called for improving communication with potential recruits, expanding training opportunities, and allowing people to choose the military unit in which they will serve. He believes such changes would reduce the number of people avoiding service, provide more stable staffing for Ukraine's Defense Forces, and allow more citizens to continue contributing to the country's economy.
Earlier this summer, Fedorov was dismissed as defense minister. Following his removal, demonstrations were held in several Ukrainian cities by supporters who opposed the leadership change at the Ministry of Defense.
Responding to the protests at the time, Fedorov said he viewed them not as personal support for his candidacy but as an expression of broader public concern over developments in the country, stressing that holding office had never been an end in itself.
