Here's an update from RFE/RL's news desk:
The Ukrainian parliament has approved a plan to mobilize soldiers in three waves this year amid a continuing conflict with Russian-backed separatists in the country's east.
In a 268-1 vote on January 15, lawmakers endorsed a decree from President Petro Poroshenko on the plan.
The first wave of mobilization is to begin on January 20, the second in April, and the last in June.
Addressing parliament, National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksandr Turchynov said Ukraine "ought to give priority to patriotic citizens who are ready to defend their country voluntarily."
He also warned of a "full-fledged continental war" if the rebels, backed by Russia, launch an attack on Ukrainian positions.
Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak said last week that he hopes to recruit 104,000 soldiers by the mobilization this year.
(dpa, Interfax, TASS)