The issue of mobilization in Ukraine remains relevant and sparks widespread public discussion, while the phenomenon known as ‘busification’ is not going to disappear anytime soon.
This is reported by Finway
Member of Parliament Ruslan Horbenko openly stated that there is a severe shortage of mobilization resources and critical miscalculations in the actions of the authorities that have deepened existing problems. According to him, the state has failed to approach the issue of mobilization in a timely and systematic manner, and necessary decisions have been delayed for too long. Currently, according to the deputy’s estimates, the mobilization potential will only last for a year and a half.
Impact of Government Decisions on the Mobilization Reserve
Ruslan Horbenko particularly highlights the Cabinet of Ministers’ resolution that allowed men aged 18–22 to travel abroad. In his opinion, this decision significantly reduced the country’s mobilization reserve and was made without consultations with the military. The deputy emphasizes that such an approach “erodes” potential reservists and is not the result of a balanced state policy.
“We must strategically prepare for a prolonged war if we want peace, but for years we have not approached mobilization comprehensively and have made many mistakes,” Horbenko emphasizes.
He also underscores that the responsibility for qualitative changes in the mobilization system must start from the Supreme Commander-in-Chief and extend to all levels—from the leadership of the Armed Forces to the General Staff and the Ministry of Defense.
The Role of ‘Busification’ and Solutions to the Problem
Commenting on the phenomenon of ‘busification’, Horbenko stresses that society should not idealize the situation. He views this method as one of the tools for replenishing the mobilization resource and compares it to the detention of individuals for breaking the law. In the deputy’s opinion, the method of transportation to territorial recruitment centers or police stations is a technical issue and does not hold decisive significance.
“When a person breaks the law, they are detained. What transport is used to deliver them to the TCK or police is a secondary issue,” he explains.
At the same time, the member of parliament acknowledges that the mobilization problem cannot be solved solely through forceful methods. He emphasizes the need to involve qualified specialists, implement clear rules, and establish motivational mechanisms. Horbenko is convinced that the situation is under the control of President Volodymyr Zelensky, but without deep reform and a comprehensive approach, public tension will only increase.