Legalization of forced mobilization in occupied Melitopol
In Melitopol, in the occupied territory, there are plans to legalize the forced mobilization of local residents. A law passed in Russia allows for recruitment into the army throughout the year. This means that even residents of occupied areas can be called up for service, despite previous promises to 'liberate locals'.
According to the new rules, any resident of Melitopol or nearby villages can receive a summons and must report to the 'military enlistment office' within 30 days. 'Military commissariats' are already compiling lists of men aged 18 to 50 who are 'fit for service'. A check of residences is already underway, including those of utility workers, security guards, and builders.
According to local residents, 'volunteers' are pressured: they either join the service under contract or risk losing their jobs.
The National Resistance Center points out that such actions violate international law and the IV Geneva Convention, which prohibits the forced conscription of the population of occupied territory into the army of the occupying country.
The situation in occupied Melitopol is reported to be tense, with the administration fearing protests and trying to justify mobilization with slogans about 'military-patriotic education'. Experts believe that Moscow intends to continue the war on its chosen path, using Ukrainians from occupied territories.
In Melitopol, it is planned to legalize the forced mobilization of local residents, expand the responsibilities of commissioners, and identify residents who could be quickly sent to the front.