Ukraine to revamp mobilization exemption system — Ukrainian PM

Source: press conference of Denys Shmyhal

The Ukrainian government is set to overhaul the current mobilization exemption system to prevent Ukrainians from “buying their way out” of military service, said prime minister Denys Shmyhal during a press conference on Tuesday.  The goverment will consult with the military to ensure the new system “aligns with national interests”.

Ukraine’s prime minister assured the exemption system will not be “sensational”.

The current exemption criteria focus on critical enterprises, the defense industry, and professions in short supply, along with requirements such as no outstanding tax debts and fair wage levels. The government, though, wants to fine-tune the exemptions’ system by adopting a “fight or work” concept.

It will focus on creating additional jobs, raising wages, and encouraging Ukrainians to return to the country.

Before the war, Ukraine had about 10 million officially employed individuals, but the full-scale invasion has led to the loss of 3.5 million jobs.  Shmyhal said the government is working to restore employment levels, which is critical for securing social benefits for pensioners after the war as the limited workforce creates additional strain on the economy and businesses.

Efforts are also underway to reintegrate workers into the formal economy, boost wages, and increase budget revenues.

Five armored vehicles “Kozak” have received a new mission – thanks to the support of Metinvest, they have been upgraded to full-fledged command and staff vehicles. These upgraded vehicles are now operating on the front line.

A kamikaze drone flies directly toward an armored personnel carrier. But instead of penetrating the hull, it explodes on a steel screen. The crew survives. This is the new reality for Ukrainian forces, who have received enhanced protection thanks to the Metinvest project within “Steel Front of Rinat Akhmetov”.

To commemorate the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion, “Bukvy” has compiled data on the largest donors supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Among them there are charitable foundations and businesses. The list includes, in particular, foundations that provide assistance exclusively from their own resources, without fundraising (such as SCM by Rinat Akhmetov, Epicenter, etc.).

In just 1.5 months, Ukrainian specialists have created an innovative protective shell for the control modules of anti-aircraft missile systems (AMS) Patriot and Iris-T SLM. This development was another step in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities, aimed at protecting key elements of the air defense system from debris damage.

Military serviceman of the International Legion for the Defense of Ukraine with the call sign “Paradox” is the crew commander of the American M113 armored personnel carrier. He is a master at using it and is constantly improving, because the legionnaire’s skills are tested every day in battle. You have to drive to the front lines, often under artillery fire and drone attacks.