In a news conference held in Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine disclosed that the country's military is contemplating the mobilization of 450,000 to 500,000 additional individuals to bolster their forces amid the ongoing war with Russia. President Zelensky acknowledged that this is a "sensitive" matter with substantial financial implications.

The Ukrainian president indicated that before endorsing the proposal, he requires more comprehensive information. He hinted that there are already 500,000 soldiers stationed on the front lines. The urgency to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities arises from Republicans in the US Congress recently blocking a $60 billion military package intended for Ukraine.

This blockade was followed by Hungary's obstruction of the European Union's financial aid deal worth €50 billion ($55 billion) last week. Nevertheless, EU leaders have assured Ukraine that they will not leave them without support.

Ukraine has been grappling with an ammunition shortage as it continues to confront occupying Russian forces, who launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022. The counter-offensive led by Kyiv has stagnated during the onset of winter, raising concerns that Russia may have the upper hand in terms of firepower.

Earlier this month, Olena Zelenska, Ukraine's first lady, warned in an interview with the BBC that Ukrainians are in "mortal danger" and face the risk of being left to perish without further support from the West.

Echoing her concerns, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared this week that Moscow would persevere with its invasion, asserting that all their goals would be achieved. Putin also conceded that Russia's armed forces are encountering challenges with air defense systems and communication, warranting the need to enhance drone production.

President Zelensky's end-of-year news conference on Tuesday was a closed-door event, with the time and location undisclosed to the general public. Selected Ukrainian and foreign media were informed through confirmation letters.

During the two-hour event, President Zelensky, donning his trademark military-style attire, responded to a wide range of questions. He revealed that Ukraine's top military commanders had put forth a proposition to mobilize an additional 450,000 to 500,000 individuals for the country's war effort. He emphasized the significance of careful deliberation before committing to such a plan, requiring detailed information on the future of Ukraine's current one-million-strong army and the fate of soldiers who have been defending the nation for two years.

When asked by the BBC about the possibility of Ukraine beginning to lose the war, President Zelensky remained resolute, stating a firm "no." This unwavering determination is shared by many Ukrainians, who refuse to entertain the idea of succumbing to their Russian invaders.

Throughout the news conference, President Zelensky sought to exude confidence. However, at times, he appeared tense and irritable when questioned about reports of corruption among Ukrainian government officials and lawmakers, a topic that has been a cause for scrutiny.