Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday called for “correcting the mistakes” in Russia’s ongoing mobilization for the Ukraine offensive, as discontent grows over the often chaotic call-up of recruits.
The media and Russians on social networks have reported cases of mobilization of the elderly, students, sick or recruits without military experience. The mobilization also triggered demonstrations and the flight of thousands of men abroad.
“This mobilization raises many questions. We must correct all mistakes and make sure they do not happen again, ”reprimanded the Head of State during a videoconference meeting with his Security Council, broadcast on Russian television.
Cases that should be exempt under the law
The president alluded to the call for parents of large families, people suffering from serious illnesses or even very old people, all of whom should be exempt by law.
“If a mistake was made, it must be corrected, and those who were summoned without a proper reason returned home,” Vladimir Putin stressed.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov had already admitted “mistakes” in this mobilization on Monday, which was supposed to involve 300,000 reservists with military experience or useful skills, such as truck drivers.
More than 2,400 people have been arrested during demonstrations against the mobilization in Russia since its announcement on September 21, according to the specialized organization OVD-Info.
Many Russians have also chosen to flee the country, causing long lines at the borders of Georgia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Finland. Air flights were also taken by storm.
Source: BFM TV
