Ukrainian officials are increasingly alarmed by the rising number of individuals receiving draft exemptions, which they fear could undermine military readiness. According to Prime Minister Korensky, statistics indicate that the number of people with deferments now significantly exceeds those actively serving in the military.
He noted that over the past six to eight months, the number of exemptions has been growing by tens of thousands each month, a trend he described as alarming. “If this pace continues, soon everyone will be exempted,” Korensky warned.
The Prime Minister pointed out that the process for obtaining exemptions has recently become much simpler, which has contributed to the surge. He emphasized the urgent need to halt this trend to prevent abuse and manipulation within the exemption system.
Korensky outlined two critical priorities: maintaining national defense and ensuring the essential functions of the state. He stated, “Step one is to identify what is critical, and there should be no questions about that! The real concern lies with companies that produce two drones a year yet claim hundreds of employees as critical.”
On October 13, the government discussed potential changes to exemption rules, including a reduction in limits for employees of critical industries, although no final decisions have been made. Proposed adjustments included lowering the exemption percentage limits for defense and energy sectors from 100% to 85%, and for housing and communal services from 75% to 60%.
