In a recent statement, Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák called on Western allies to focus their efforts on assisting Ukrainian men of military draft age to return home and join the country's army, rather than sending NATO troops to Ukraine. During a debate on Slovakian television channel TA3, Kaliňák emphasized the importance of supporting the Ukrainian army by motivating and providing resources to capable young men.

Kaliňák highlighted that, instead of protecting and providing shelter for Ukrainian refugees, Western countries should prioritize the return of Ukrainian men who fall within the country's law on mobilization. He emphasized that these men, who have left the country since Russia's invasion in February 2022, can be legally drafted under existing mobilization rules, with approximately 300,000 eligible to serve.

Furthermore, Kaliňák mentioned that Ukraine's new mobilization bill, which has only passed the first reading in parliament, aims to lower the mobilization age from 27 to 25 years. This change would allow for the rotation of Ukraine's exhausted front-line soldiers. However, the bill has faced challenges in gaining public support and securing additional funding for a new wave of troops.

The call by the Slovak Defense Minister comes amidst ongoing tensions in Ukraine, with the country facing ongoing aggression from Russia. The international community has been closely monitoring the situation and discussing potential ways to assist Ukraine in its defense efforts.

Kaliňák's proposal to prioritize the return of Ukrainian men of draft age has raised questions about the effectiveness and long-term feasibility of sending NATO troops to the region. The Slovak Defense Minister believes that enabling capable Ukrainian men to join their country's army will provide a significant boost to its defense capabilities.

As the mobilization bill continues to undergo legislative processes, it remains to be seen whether Western allies will heed Kaliňák's call and actively support the return of Ukrainian men to their homeland. The situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, with international actors closely watching and considering various approaches to ensure the country's security and stability.