Mobilization Reform, Frontline Gains, and Expected Prisoner Exchange in Ukraine

23.02.2026

Ukraine is implementing a comprehensive mobilization reform through digitalization while simultaneously reclaiming territories on the Southern front and preparing for a large-scale prisoner exchange. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi confirmed the liberation of 400 square kilometers on the Oleksandrivka axis. At the same time, the Ministry of Defense reported that 90% of mobilization deferrals are now processed automatically. These strategic moves coincide with high-level diplomatic efforts to return captured Ukrainian citizens this week.

Portrait of the Minister of Defense of Ukraine Mykhailo Fedorov.
Mykhailo Fedorov. Photo: facebook.com/mykhailofedorov.com.ua

Minister of Defense Mykhailo Fedorov reported on the mobilization reform in his Telegram channel. The head of the department emphasized the importance of a systemic approach to changes in the military.

“We are currently working on a comprehensive mobilization reform. We will propose a systemic solution to resolve problems accumulated over the years while maintaining the country’s defense capability,” stated Mykhailo Fedorov.

According to him, 90% of deferrals through the “Rezerv+” system are now extended automatically. This frees recruitment center employees from routine paperwork and allows them to focus on combat tasks.

AFU Advance on the Oleksandrivka Axis

On the Oleksandrivka axis, Ukrainian forces demonstrate successful dynamics. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that since late January, Air Assault Forces units have restored control over 400 square kilometers of territory and eight settlements.

“The situation in this area is difficult. The enemy continues to apply pressure, actively uses small assault groups for infiltration, uses artillery, unmanned vehicles, and, in some places, armored vehicles. But our soldiers not only hold the defense but also act successfully in an offensive operation,” the Commander-in-Chief stated.

The operation also aims at the complete expulsion of Russian troops beyond the borders of the Dnipropetrovsk region.

Prospects for Prisoner Exchange

In parallel with battlefield successes, Kyiv is preparing for a large-scale prisoner exchange. Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Office of the President, expressed hope that the process will be completed this week.

“We are working on this. I hope that it will happen this week,” he said.

Kyrylo Budanov during a speech or meeting at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov on the sidelines of the 56th Annual World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, January 20, 2026/REUTERS/Denis Balibouse

Budanov added that the number of people on the lists will be higher than in previous stages. He also emphasized that a just end to the full-scale war is possible only under the condition of clear international decisions and the return of all children abducted by Russia.

Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported on the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ counteroffensive actions and the liberation of settlements in the combat zone.

Author: Diana Slobodian | View all publications by the author