Ukrainian MPs on Wednesday approved on first reading the new bill that seeks to radically change military mobilization procedures in the country amid its ongoing hostilities with Russia. Kiev is experiencing an acute shortage of manpower due to frontline losses, draft-dodging and citizens fleeing abroad.
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The bill is aimed at boosting mobilization numbers through a number of coercive measures. It would require able-bodied men to register for possible service at a special website and provides for serious penalties for anyone failing to respond to an electronic summons. Draft dodgers would face denial of government services, asset freezes and other restrictions.
