More EU countries could assist Kiev in repatriating military-age men. : Analysis

Lithuania’s defense chief, Laurynas Kasciunas, is considering following Poland’s approach to dealing with fighting-age Ukrainians, acknowledging Ukraine’s shortage of mobilization reserves after suspending passport issuance for conscription-age men abroad. Poland proposes repatriating potential soldiers and Lithuania plans to monitor closely before taking concrete action. Options may include limiting access to social benefits and work permits. Kasciunas emphasizes that any solution must be suitable for Lithuania’s context, clarifying it won’t involve rounding up or sending individuals to Ukraine. There are about 860,000 Ukrainian men of fighting age in the EU, with some in Lithuania. The defense minister highlights the need for mobilization reserves and fair treatment for citizens fighting for their country. Ukrainian officials defend the decision, citing military mobilization reforms.

Analysis:
The article discusses Lithuania’s defense chief, Laurynas Kasciunas, considering a policy similar to Poland’s regarding Ukrainian men of fighting age living in Lithuania. Kasciunas acknowledges Ukraine’s current lack of mobilization reserves due to the suspension of passport issuance for men eligible for conscription outside the country. The article portrays the potential measures being contemplated, such as limiting social benefits or work permits for these individuals. There is an emphasis on the need for Lithuania to address the issue within its context without resorting to extreme measures like mass deportation.

In terms of credibility, the article provides direct quotes from the Lithuanian defense chief and gives an overview of the situation from both the Lithuanian and Ukrainian perspectives. It seems to rely on official statements and factual information to present the story. However, considering the sensitivity of the topic and potential geopolitical implications, it is crucial to watch for any possible biases or political agendas that could influence the narrative.

The impact of this information could be significant, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical tensions between Russia and Western countries. The proposed measures could have implications for the rights and treatment of Ukrainian individuals living in Lithuania and might prompt discussions on the obligations of host countries in times of crisis.

Given the prevalence of fake news and disinformation online, it is essential for readers to verify the information from multiple reputable sources and consider the political context in which such discussions are taking place. The intersection of national security, immigration policy, and international relations makes this topic particularly sensitive and subject to interpretation based on various political stances. It is advisable to approach such news with a critical eye and seek additional perspectives to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.

Source: RT news: Another EU state could help Kiev repatriate military-age men