Turchynov signs decree on martial law and mobilisation

The decree needs to be approved by the Verkhovna Rada.

Martial law and a partial mobilisation of the army across the country can be declared. The statement was made by interim president of Ukraine and the Rada's speaker Oleksandr Turchynov, TSN reports.

The partial mobilisation will be carried out in all Ukrainian regions and in capital Kyiv. In the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol, only volunteers are invited to come to military units and enlistment offices.

“The decree sets the conditions to place the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard of Ukraine, other Ukrainian military groups and civil protection services on a war footing,” the agenda says.

The decree was signed by interim president Turchynov, who explained he did it “taking into account the ongoing aggression in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, which Russia tries to hide under a farce titled as 'referendum', which will never be recognised by Ukraine and the civilised world.”

“Taking into consideration the potential danger, I have signed a decree on a partial mobilisation,” Turchynov said. The decree needs Rada's approval.

Photo: RIA Novosti