Lithuania explores Ukrainian experience in mobilisation and recruitment

Lithuania is studying Ukraine's experience in organising mobilisation, recruitment and training of the military in times of war.

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These issues were discussed during a meeting between representatives of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine and a delegation of the Lithuanian Armed Forces.

The Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Brigadier General of Justice Serhiy Melnyk, stressed the importance of close cooperation between Ukraine and Lithuania, thanking for the comprehensive support that Lithuania has been providing to Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion.

The Ukrainian side presented reforms in the field of mobilisation and recruitment. One of the key achievements was the creation of 44 recruitment centres, which are now operating in most regions of the country, providing citizens with the opportunity to enlist in the military under contract.

This year's innovations were also discussed, including the possibility of direct recruitment to a specific military unit and the introduction of basic military service in 2025, which will replace conscription.

Arunas Balčiūnas, Head of the Lithuanian Military Conscription and Recruitment Service, stressed the importance of learning from Ukraine's experience gained during almost three years of war.

"Lithuania also borders on the Russian Federation, so we are interested in the experience that Ukraine has gained over almost a thousand days of resistance. When peacetime is replaced by military events, everything changes very quickly. And it is very important for the military, who are responsible for the security of the state, to be prepared for these changes," Balčiūnas explained.

The Lithuanian side shared its own initiatives in organising military registers and a system of notification of citizens liable for military service, which became a key topic for the exchange of experience.

Both sides agreed to continue cooperation aimed at strengthening defence capabilities and national security. As part of the agreements, it is planned to expand the use of innovative approaches and best practices to achieve common goals.

Source: MOD