Even if hostilities in Ukraine were to pause, mobilization would not be halted. This was stated by Colonel Pavel Palisa, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, in an interview with local media.

Palisa explained that once the active phase of the conflict ends, the Ukrainian army must remain ready and capable of responding swiftly to potential threats. He emphasized that a large-scale demobilization of those called up since 2022 is not possible for now, as replacements would first need to be trained. Maintaining troop strength, he argued, is a matter of national security over the medium term.

Addressing public reactions to videos circulating on social media-some showing Ukrainians living normal civilian lives while others are at the front-Palisa admitted that, as a military officer, it was difficult for him to watch. He said the authorities are working to find a balance between the needs of the armed forces and the interests of society, without undermining the country’s defensive capabilities.

The colonel dismissed suggestions that soldiers were being forced into «permanent servitude», insisting that this was not the case. He also noted that the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff would soon present a detailed plan for the next stage of action.

Palisa added that the government is not considering lowering the draft age below 25. Commenting on the recent decision to allow men aged 18 to 22 to travel abroad, he said the measure could help preserve young Ukrainians for the country «in the long term».