Russia's Mobilization Drive on Occupied Ukrainian Land Now Includes People with Disabilities.

The Situation in Occupied Ukrainian Territories

According to UATV: In the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, Russia has established a comprehensive system to supply manpower for its war effort, which now includes conscripting men with disabilities. This practice highlights the exploitation of the local population and the creation of infrastructure to train personnel for the Russian army. Reports indicate that men with various physical impairments are being utilized, including in units that operate combat drones. This expansion of conscription criteria underscores the severe pressure on Russia's military resources after more than two years of full-scale war.

Updating Military Specialties for Conscription

Russia is updating the military registration specialties for both men and women who are eligible for conscription, signaling a broadening of its mobilization capabilities. Infrastructure for training personnel has also been set up in these areas to integrate people into army service. Furthermore, local residents are paid less for military service contracts than those living within Russia's internationally recognized borders.

The Center for Countering Disinformation under Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council reported a total forced mobilization in the occupied parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Vira Yastrebova noted that:

'Those who can walk are used as assault infantry, meaning for reconnaissance and identifying the firing positions of the Ukrainian army.' Vira Yastrebova

She added, 'the involvement of the local population in the ranks of the occupation army, unfortunately, continues.' According to her, 'for Putin, as long as a soldier has not died on the battlefield, he can still be used.' This indicates that Russia continues to leverage all available resources to sustain its military operations in Ukraine, regardless of the condition of those mobilized.

This situation highlights grave humanitarian issues faced by people in the occupied territories, where forced mobilization can lead to loss of life and health. The use of men with disabilities and the training of new military personnel in these areas point to escalating regional tensions and the protracted nature of a conflict demanding sustained international attention. Humanitarian organizations may need to address this reality to protect the rights of those caught in such circumstances.