This decision may affect their ability to renew passports or access essential citizen services.

The move comes as thousands of Ukrainian men have chosen to leave the country rather than risk being drafted to help defend against Russia's invasion. Martial law currently prohibits men aged 18 and over from traveling abroad. Additionally, there are thousands of Ukrainian men already living abroad for various reasons such as work or study.

The suspension of consular services aligns with a newly implemented law on military mobilization, which aims to address the severe shortage of soldiers on the front lines by expanding the pool of eligible men for conscription.

The Ministry stated in a website statement that the temporary suspension will be effective from April 23, 2022, and will apply to new applications for consular services. However, applications received before this date will not be impacted. It is important to note that this restriction does not affect the provision of consular assistance in emergency situations for Ukrainian citizens abroad.

Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba took to social media, formerly known as Twitter, to address the situation. He emphasized that those living outside Ukraine who are able to fight should not expect the same treatment as those who have remained in the country. He underscored the importance of fulfilling one's duty to the homeland, without providing further details on the changes. Kuleba mentioned that the ministry would provide additional clarifications in the near future.

The recent mobilization law, approved earlier this month by Ukraine's parliament, streamlines the conscription process and is expected to add hundreds of thousands of troops to the country's military. Field commanders in Ukraine have reported an acute shortage of soldiers, particularly in the infantry, as they struggle against the invading Russian army, which possesses a significant advantage in troops, weapons, and ammunition.

Starting next month, the mobilization law requires all men between the ages of 18 and 60 to update their personal information with their military registration office within 60 days. Failure to register, especially for men living abroad, may result in denial of consular services. It should be noted that Ukrainian officials enacted legislation at the beginning of Russia's invasion to prohibit men aged 18 and over from leaving the country.

The difficulties faced by Kyiv at the front lines have been compounded by a lengthy delay in U.S. approval of a $60 billion military aid package, hampered due to opposition from Republicans in Congress. However, on Saturday, the House passed the aid bill, and its approval is expected by the Senate on Tuesday.

Foreign Minister Kuleba emphasized the importance of recognizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for all Ukrainian citizens, regardless of their location, to contribute to the defense of their homeland. While further details regarding the changes in consular services are awaited, Ukraine remains steadfast in its commitment to address its national security concerns during this time of conflict.