Oleksandr Turchynov: In the immediate future, we will not abandon conscription and compulsory military service

In the immediate future, Ukraine will not abandon conscription and compulsory military service. This was stated by Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov in an exclusive interview with the "Interfax-Ukraine" information agency.

"Even if the Armed Forces are up to strength with contract soldiers, we still will prepare reservists. The more prepared is the reserve, the higher is the country's defense capability. The creation of a powerful well-trained reserve of the Armed Forces is the pre-requisite and the condition of the country's survival. This decision is clearly enshrined in the National Security Strategy approved by the NSDC", - he said.

Secretary of the NSDC of Ukraine emphasized that a professional capable volunteer army based on professional contract soldiers was created in Ukraine.

On the other hand, Mr. Turchynov noted that we cannot abandon conscription. "Conscript servicemen do not fight in the Anti-terrorist operation zone, this is a matter of principle for us. But in the conditions of constant military threat, we need a powerful prepared reserve. Especially the ready reserve", - he pointed out.