Zelenskyy Seeks European Funding to Shift Ukraine's Military to a Contract Model.

An Appeal for International Support

According to Novyny.live: In an interview with the BBC, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on Europe to assist Ukraine in shifting its military from a mobilization-based model to a professional contract army, stressing that financial support is essential for this transition. He explained that Ukraine currently lacks the funding for such a program and requires external resources to implement it effectively. This request highlights the ongoing challenge of modernizing Ukraine's defense forces while the country remains at war.

Zelenskyy pointed to Ukraine's existing 'Law on Military Duty and Military Service,' which outlines several forms of service. New contract options for those liable for service have been announced, aiming to boost motivation and ensure stability within the military ranks. The President stated that to end mobilization, Ukraine must move its army to a contract basis, similar to Russia's model, which involves paying each contracted soldier.

“We want that too, but we don’t have enough money. This is where Europeans can help,” Zelenskyy emphasized.

This appeal underscores Ukraine's drive to strengthen its defense capabilities and adapt to contemporary challenges. Transitioning to a professional contract army could lead to a more skilled and stable force, but it demands substantial financial investment, which likely requires sustained international backing. Successfully implementing these changes would mark a significant step in reforming Ukraine's defense sector and reducing its reliance on mass mobilization.