Ukraine President "Mobilizing Reservists in Preparation for Full-Scale War with Russia"

"No Need for Total Mobilization Order... Continued Diplomatic Efforts"
"Entrepreneurs and Diplomats Do Not Need to Leave Ukraine"

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that he will issue a reserve forces mobilization order in preparation for a full-scale war with Russia. This is interpreted as a response to heightened invasion concerns following the Russian parliament's approval of a dispatch plan to the pro-Russian rebel areas in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine.

On the 22nd (local time), President Zelensky stated in a televised national address, "As the Supreme Commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, I am issuing a reserve forces mobilization order," emphasizing, "The military must strengthen its readiness for all possible changes in the operational situation." He added, "However, there is no need to issue a general mobilization order today, and the Ukrainian military and organizations have been immediately reinforced."

Along with this, President Zelensky announced plans to continue diplomatic efforts for resolution. He said, "We are continuing to seek diplomatic solutions to escape the current crisis," stressing, "Ukraine will not cede any territory to Russia." He further explained, "Through consultations with political parties, we will launch an economic patriotism program that includes measures such as promoting domestic products and reducing the gasoline value-added tax."

President Zelensky requested entrepreneurs and foreign embassies leaving Ukraine for safety reasons to remain in the country, stating, "They all must stay in Ukraine, and our military here will protect their businesses." Currently, many entrepreneurs and citizens are fleeing to Poland and other countries, raising serious concerns about economic losses in Ukraine.

President Zelensky's remarks are seen as reflecting growing concerns over escalation amid heightened possibilities of a Russian invasion. Earlier, the Russian Federation Council approved a plan allowing Russian troops to be dispatched outside the territory at the request of Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, President Putin added, "It does not mean that troops are going to Donbas immediately," and stated, "Russia will provide military support to the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) if requested by the two republics."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.