Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed that Ukraine’s military leadership has proposed mobilizing 450,000 – 500,000 additional conscripts for the country’s Defense Forces. This statement was made during a press conference on 19 December summarizing the events of 2023.

The President emphasized the sensitivity of the matter, noting that the proposal was linked to potential counter-offensive actions.

“This is a very serious figure. I said that I need more arguments to support this direction, because this is a matter of people, fairness, defense capability, and finances,” Zelenskyy stated.

He also highlighted the need to consider the soldiers who have been on the front lines for nearly two years, addressing issues of rotation. He stressed the need for a comprehensive military plan for the potential mobilization of an additional 500,000 individuals.

He mentioned that subsequent discussions with the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s Parliament, would be needed for legislative changes.

“Mobilization in such a format will additionally cost Ukraine UAH 500 billion,” he noted.