President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has approved a law that reduces the minimum conscription age from 27 to 25, a move aimed at bolstering the country’s military capacity amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.
The Ukrainian Parliament passed this measure in May 2023, but it was formally signed into law by Zelensky on Tuesday.
The decision to lower the conscription age reflects a recognition of the need for a larger pool of eligible men for military service during the current martial law period.
The law’s passage was motivated by concerns that many fit individuals capable of military service were unable to be called up due to age restrictions.
Under Ukraine’s martial law, the process of calling men to serve involves two stages: initial conscription into military service followed by potential mobilization for combat duties.
While the conscription age has been lowered to 25, the mobilization age remains at 27.
However, discussions are underway in the Ukrainian Parliament to further reduce the mobilization age to 25 as well.
Martial law in Ukraine also imposes travel restrictions on most men aged 18 to 60, barring them from leaving the country unless exempted for health reasons or other valid grounds.
This decision comes amidst ongoing challenges for Ukraine’s military as it contends with Russia’s invasion, with the United Kingdom’s defense intelligence agency noting Russia’s significant military advantage in terms of personnel and munitions.
The issue of expanding the draft age has been contentious in Ukraine, with differing opinions among military leaders and officials.
Former Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi advocated for a larger army, but disagreements over draft policies were cited as a factor in his dismissal earlier in 2024.
President Zelensky, while cautious about mobilizing younger men, acknowledged the possibility if deemed necessary for national defense.
Source-CNN
