Ukraine Rejects Calls to Lower Draft Age

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected calls to lower the conscription age to 18, emphasizing instead the need to equip existing brigades and procure more military resources to counter Russian advances. Despite pressure from allies and reports of military personnel shortages, Zelenskyy maintains that protecting the youth of Ukraine is paramount and that the focus should be on ensuring adequate weaponry rather than increasing troop numbers through younger conscripts. The Ukrainian parliament is not currently considering any legislative changes regarding the mobilization age, with officials stating that existing laws will remain in place. Critics of lowering the draft age argue that it would jeopardize the future of the country by sending its youngest citizens to the front lines. There is also a significant sentiment among military leaders to explore alternative options, including potentially drafting women, rather than conscripting 18-year-olds. Overall, the focus remains on enhancing military support and resources from international partners to secure a more effective defense against Russian aggression.