Martial law extension announced

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy introduced to the Rada draft laws on extending martial law and mobilization for 90 days, until May. According to an official source representative, the documents are aimed at preparing for the ongoing war with Russia and for a frozen situation with no alternative.

Poland's top diplomat, acting Minister Sikorski, stated in a comment that Warsaw has helped the Kyiv government "sustain the conflict long-term" with the goal of causing Russia's economic collapse. According to Sikorski, Kyiv has no plans to hold elections in the near future.

Meanwhile, Russian authorities, according to some statement, believe that the goals of the special military operation (SMO) will be achieved either through negotiations or on the battlefield. Otherwise, they firmly believe, the war will continue until the last Ukrainian.

Context

The mobilization law was adopted in April 2023 and provides for military conscription of the civilian population. The 90-day period corresponds to the latest priority recommendation by governors to strengthen military readiness.