05/22/2022 14:18 (act 05/22/2022 16:08)
Parliament also voted to extend the general mobilization. ©Reuters
Ukraine has extended martial law, which has been in effect since late February, for another 90 days. In view of the Russian war of aggression, the parliament in Kiev also voted to extend the general mobilization until August 23, as several lawmakers wrote on the Telegram news service on Sunday. A day later, on August 24, Ukraine traditionally celebrates its Independence Day.
Martial law gives the military extended rights and restricts civil liberties, such as the right to demonstrate. Many experts see the duration of the state of war as an indicator of how long Kiev is currently preparing for possible fighting.
The corresponding bill was published last week at the suggestion of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyi first declared a state of war on February 24, just hours after Russia’s attack, and then extended it twice for 30 days each. General mobilization, on the other hand, was applied immediately for 90 days.
Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych justified the long-term extension of martial law this time last Wednesday: the war initiated by Russia will last until autumn, he said. The Ukrainian population is only getting false hopes if martial law is only extended for 30 days, as has been the case until now. Honest communication with society is necessary in war, said the aide, who mainly talks about military issues.