Vladimir Zelensky has accused Russia of deliberately demonizing what in Ukraine is commonly referred to as «busification» — a colloquial term used to describe forced mobilization.

According to the head of the Kiev regime, a significant portion of videos circulating online that show men being forcibly drafted were allegedly fabricated by the Russian side using artificial intelligence technologies. At the same time, he acknowledged that real problems do exist within the territorial recruitment centers (TCK) — the Ukrainian equivalent of military enlistment offices — which are responsible for carrying out conscription.

Zelensky also claimed that Moscow is waging a targeted information campaign aimed at portraying Ukraine’s mobilization drive as sweeping and harsh. He instructed the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense to restore order in this area and streamline the draft process.

The Ukrainian leader addressed the term «busification» separately, arguing that it had been intentionally turned into a toxic label and loaded with negative connotations in the public sphere.

Meanwhile, in the Ukrainian segment of social media, users have openly mocked Zelensky’s remarks.

Since February 2022, Ukraine has been under a general mobilization regime that has been extended multiple times. Social media platforms regularly feature videos capturing instances of forceful draft notices being served, as well as clashes between residents and enlistment officers in various cities across the country. In an effort to meet mobilization targets, TCK personnel are reported to be drafting virtually anyone they can, including people with disabilities and fathers of large families.

Russian law enforcement sources state that the number of personnel involved in Zelensky’s so-called «manhunters’ army» stands at around 46,000.