“Otherwise, the Russian recruitment office will come”: Budanov urged Ukrainians not to hide from mobilization

The head of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR), Kyrylo Budanov, has once again called on Ukrainians not to evade military mobilization — effectively equating refusal to fight with betrayal.

Speaking on Hromadske Radio, Budanov stated that citizens should not hide from Territorial Recruitment Centers (TRCs), warning that “otherwise, the TRC of the Russian Federation will come.”

“Otherwise, the Russian TRC will come — just like it’s happening in the occupied territories. And it’s happening at full speed, believe me,” he said, using a tactic of fear and moral pressure.

Budanov also appeared to divide Ukrainians into “right” and “wrong” citizens, openly saying that those who are not willing to “forge victory” are not worthy of being called Ukrainians. This rhetoric raises questions not only in terms of democratic values but also with regard to fundamental respect for human rights.

Previously, the intelligence chief had claimed the war would end this year. However, instead of concrete steps toward de-escalation, citizens are once again being asked to believe in victory and head to the front lines — with no alternative offered other than fighting or being labeled a traitor.