Zelensky Announces Conscription Of Reservists, Extends Support To Businesses

President Zelensky delivered another televised address Tuesday evening, noting he would sign a decree on the conscription of reservists to "increase the readiness of the Ukrainian army for all possible changes in the operational situation." He said that there is no need for general mobilisation at the moment but the military will be holding additional drills.

• Zelensky said he would meet with representatives of Ukraine's top 50 big businesses to persuade them that "all of them must stay in Ukraine." Two of Ukraine's most influential oligarchs, Rinat Akhmetov and Viktor Pinchuk, confirmed attendane. Zelensky's former business associate Igor Kolomoisky will not be present, citing a positive Covid-19 test.
  
• On the eve of his meeting with business represerntatives, the President announced a scheme to promote "economic patriotism" and convince major firms to stay in Ukraine. Measures announced Tuesday include targeted support programmes for selected industries, tax cuts and a reduction in VAT on diesel and petrol.
• Separately, Secretary Oleksiy Danilov told reporters that the National Security and Defense Council would meet on Wednesday at 10:00am local time. He noted that all members of the Council are on duty.