Fear of Ukraine’s mobilization keeps some people under Russian occupation, and Moscow uses it as a psyop, MP says. His deferment bill has stalled

Some Ukrainians living in Russian-occupied regions are hesitant to return to Ukrainian-controlled areas due to the fear of immediate mobilization upon reaching Ukrainian territory, according to Serhii Kozyr, an MP and former head of Kherson Oblast. Russia has maintained control over parts of Ukraine since the ongoing full-scale invasion began in 2022, and Ukraine has been enlisting men into its army ever since.

The warning comes after nearly 800 individuals were evacuated from the occupied Oleshky, as reported by US First Lady Melania Trump, during a ceasefire that lasted from 27 October to 1 November. Kozyr's proposed solution would grant returning individuals a 90-day deferment to address necessary paperwork, medical checks, and other matters before potentially facing conscription.

However, those questioned upon returning to occupied territory by military personnel often explain their inability to pass the military medical board, which comes with a fine. Kozyr explained that they cannot comply with the draft as they spent five years under occupation. Russia utilizes the threat of immediate mobilization as a psychological operation, instilling fear in those considering returning.

The proposed bill (No. 16034) aims to provide a one-time 90-day deferral to those returning from occupied territories, including Crimea, as well as individuals returning from abroad who were present in Ukraine on 24 February 2022 or left legally after that date. The 90-day window would allow them to attend medical examinations, secure housing, replace lost documents, and find employment that might qualify them for a draft exemption. Following this period, those who do not qualify for an exemption would be conscripted as usual.