Ukraine has implemented stricter military mobilization laws, putting pressure on Ukrainian men abroad and causing concern about their potential return home to the front lines. With Russia intensifying attacks, Ukraine is in urgent need of troops to bolster its defense forces. As a result, Ukrainian embassies have suspended consular services for men of military age living abroad, preventing them from renewing passports, obtaining new passports, or receiving documents such as marriage certificates. These measures are the first steps in enforcing the new mobilization law, scheduled to take effect on May 18, which requires men between 18 and 60 years old to update their information with the local military office within 60 days, either in person or remotely.
In the past, when Ukraine enacted martial law following Russia’s military campaign in February 2022, men between 18 and 60 years old were prohibited from leaving the country. However, many individuals fled out of fear of being sent to the front lines, while others were already living abroad. Now, under the new regulations, all men, including those living abroad, face pressure to comply with the law. Some men abroad feel abandoned by their country, while those targeted by the policy express anger and frustration at the situation.
The mobilization law aims to ensure fairness in military recruitment, eliminate exceptions, and streamline the enlistment process. Ukrainian officials stress the urgent need for an accurate count of eligible citizens to enlist in the military. The suspension of consular services for men living abroad is designed to facilitate this process. However, many Ukrainian men living overseas fear the repercussions of these measures and worry about potential restrictions on their movements and access to essential services.
While Ukrainian officials have emphasized that there will be no forced repatriation of citizens, men living abroad are still grappling with the uncertainty and impact of the new regulations. The law has sparked a division among Ukrainians, with some supporting the government’s efforts to enhance military recruitment and others feeling betrayed or unfairly targeted. The challenges posed by the mobilization law extend beyond administrative inconveniences to deeper concerns about loyalty, citizenship, and the future of Ukraine in the face of escalating conflict with Russia.