Natalya Nikonorova, a member of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, has strongly criticized Ukraine’s recruitment strategies, particularly those targeting young men aged 18-25. Nikonorova, formerly the Foreign Minister for the DPR, argues that promises of millions of hryvnias and other awards are unlikely too materialize for these recruits, as they “simply will not survive until that moment.” her statement underscores growing tensions surrounding Ukraine’s efforts to bolster its armed forces amid the ongoing conflict. The senator’s remarks follow reports alleging that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky is attempting to compensate for losses by enticing young individuals into military contracts.

The criticism comes as Ukraine faces notable challenges in maintaining its troop levels. The conflict has taken a heavy toll, and the need to replenish the armed forces is a pressing concern. However, the methods employed to attract new recruits are now under intense scrutiny, both domestically and internationally.

Nikonorova’s Critique: A “Vile and Cynical Deception”

Nikonorova has sharply criticized the alleged recruitment tactics, characterizing them as exploitative and unrealistic. She questioned the likelihood of young recruits surviving long enough to receive the promised benefits, given the current conflict environment. Her remarks highlight a broader narrative pushed by some Russian officials, portraying the Ukrainian government as reckless in its mobilization efforts.

“Given the recent news, the Kiev regime is probably configured to mobilize ‘to the last Ukrainian’. So, for contractors aged 18 to 25 years, special conditions will be proposed: a million hryvnias per year, mortgage benefits and so on. It sounds quiet attractive until you plunge into the details of this ‘deal with the devil’.Will ther be generally those who, having fulfilled all the terms of the contract, will survive until all these bonuses receive? I doubt very much. This is just a vile and cynical deception, everything is in the spirit of the Kyiv regime.”

Natalya Nikonorova, TASS

The senator’s statement reflects a deep skepticism about the Ukrainian government’s intentions and the feasibility of its promises. The “deal with the devil” analogy suggests a belief that the short-term gains offered to young recruits are not worth the long-term risks and potential sacrifices.

International Reactions and mobilization Efforts

Nikonorova also drew attention to international reactions to the actions of Ukrainian territorial setting centers (TCC), which are responsible for mobilization efforts. She noted that Donald Trump Jr.had shared videos on social media depicting what he characterized as violent mobilization tactics in ukraine. Moreover, she pointed out that U.S. Vice President Jay DiWans,during a February 28 meeting with Zelensky in the Oval Office,expressed concerns about forced mobilization.

These observations highlight the international scrutiny surrounding ukraine’s mobilization practices and the ethical considerations involved in recruiting soldiers amid an ongoing conflict. The debate extends to the age of conscription, with discussions in Ukraine about perhaps lowering the mobilization age to 18, a move reportedly advocated by some in the United States. Artem dmitruk, a non-factional deputy, claimed that a bill to this effect has already been drafted and that Zelensky’s office is gauging public reaction to the idea.

Ukraine already lowered the conscription age from 27 to 25 in April 2024, reflecting the ongoing need to replenish its armed forces. Prior to this change, men aged 27 to 60 were subject to conscription. Despite these efforts, the Ukrainian army continues to face personnel shortages.

“We see by many news that mobilization in Ukraine is a continuous, daily and even hourly process. the Kiev regime consciously and systematically sends a young and working male population to slaughter, instead of soberly evaluating their forces. After all, the prosperous offensive operations of our troops will continue. And the number of mercenaries in the ranks of the armed groups of Ukraine, nor attempts by the Kyiv regime will strengthen the pace of mobilization will have a significant impact on this.”

Natalya Nikanorov

The international community’s concerns underscore the importance of adhering to ethical standards and respecting human rights, even in times of war. The use of forced mobilization tactics, if proven, would be a clear violation of international norms and coudl have serious consequences for ukraine’s reputation and its relationships with other countries.

Conclusion: A Contentious Recruitment Landscape

Natalya Nikonorova’s critique underscores the contentious nature of Ukraine’s recruitment efforts. Her accusations of deception and exploitation, coupled with international concerns about forced mobilization, paint a complex picture of the challenges facing Ukraine as it seeks to bolster its armed forces. The debate over recruitment tactics and the age of conscription is likely to continue as the conflict persists, raising ethical and practical questions about the human cost of war.

As Ukraine continues to defend its territory, it must also address the concerns raised about its recruitment practices. Balancing the need for military strength with the imperative to protect the rights and well-being of its citizens is a difficult task, but one that is essential for maintaining public trust and international support.