June Visit to Ukraine (Part 2)
In this second part of my update on the American Music Mission Kiev (MMK) group’s recent trip to Ukraine, I want to delve into the current mobilization efforts (drafting) in Ukraine and its subsequent impact. Ukraine’s ongoing adjustments to its mobilization processes reflect its commitment to strengthening national defense, as it should, but these measures also affect various facets of life – ranging from the economy to cultural and social dynamics.
On May 18, 2024, new legislation introduced changes to conscription laws. Following is a closer look at each of these changes:
Expanded Conscription Age Range: The new law has broadened the conscription age from 18 to 60. This expansion aims to include a larger pool of potential recruits, allowing younger and older individuals to serve. While this helps mobilize experienced personnel, it also disrupts families and communities, often separating loved ones for extended periods. The psychological toll of prolonged conflict and the constant threat of mobilization have impaired mental health, as MMK’s American group observed during our trip.
Rapid Mobilization of Reservists: The legislation facilitates the rapid deployment of reservists without declaring a full-scale mobilization declaration. This adjustment enables Ukraine to respond swiftly to immediate threats and maintains a steady flow of troops to the front lines. However, according to reports from knowledgeable sources, this flow of troops to the front lines has been severely limited.
Incentives for Enlistment: To encourage enlistment, the government has introduced financial bonuses, educational benefits, and career advancement opportunities. Yet, the sustainability of these incentives is uncertain given Ukraine’s economic strain.
The diversion of Ukraine’s funds to defense spending has negatively impacted economic growth and stability, upsetting critical areas such as infrastructure and social services. This issue ties into the concerns I raised in Part 1 of my update regarding the upcoming, perilous winter months.
During our visit, we heard numerous accounts of men between the ages of 25 to 60 being stopped on the streets by police and mobilization task forces, and immediately drafted into service. While we did not personally witness these patrols, major news outlets covered such incidents extensively. Our Kyiv staff shared specific stories about individuals who faced alarming consequences. Many were taken to mobilization offices, underwent basic training and were then deployed to conflict zones. Often, these individuals were sent to combat areas without sufficient weaponry, with promises that supplies would become available as the war progressed.
On Thursday, July 25, Igor Zakrevsky, a long-time staff member of MMK, was confronted by police and mobilization officials while outside our widow’s Bible study at the Cathedral of Christ Church. Igor, who helps with equipment setup, food voucher distribution, and other tasks, was taken to the mobilization processing office after already having completed his medical exam (see pictures). By Friday morning, Igor had been sent to Chernihiv for basic training. MMK is working to provide him with supplies to help support his service.
Even though we had heard similar stories, it was still a shock to see Igor mobilized during one of our mission’s programs. He is single and did not have family to leave behind, but he was once a street child our mission helped get sober, and introduced to Jesus. We now entrust his safety to our Lord, praying for his safe return.
Pastor Ruslan and several male members of the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra and Chorus (KSOC) have received notices to undergo military physicals to determine their suitability for service. Based on MMK staff observations, those who receive these exams are drafted. We anticipate that several more men from our ministry will soon be mobilized. This situation will continue to afflict those we know and care about until this war ends. I ask for extra prayers for Igor, Olga A.’s son, and the four men from KSOC who are already in service. As sad as it is to digest the potential loss of our loved ones, Ukraine’s ability to withstand Russian aggression depends on its defenses.
MMK remains committed to our mission of supporting widows, pensioners, children, orphans, wounded soldiers, and internally displaced persons through St. Paul’s Church, our staff, and KSOC members, despite the upheaval. They are not only fellow humans, they are also our spiritual brothers and sisters, our family. Let us be steadfast in our prayers for them.
Thank you for allowing me to share these reflections from my heart. My love for these men, women, boys and girls, and my hope for peace to return to this beautiful land and culture, guide my prayers. Lord, hear our prayers!
Greg Kannon
CEO | Music Mission Kiev