Ukraine reduces minimum age for military conscription to increase recruitment numbers

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a new law that lowers the military mobilization age from 27 to 25, allowing Ukraine to call up more people to replenish its reserves. This move comes after two years of heavy losses on the battlefield against Russia, which has a significant advantage in manpower.

The bill was approved by Ukraine’s parliament in May 2023 but did not come into force until now, when President Zelensky finally signed it. The decision to lower the mobilization age aims to address the drop in volunteer numbers and strengthen Ukraine’s military capabilities.

Meanwhile, Nato foreign ministers in Brussels are discussing plans for a €100bn five-year fund to provide long-term military support for Ukraine. Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized that Ukraine can rely on Nato support now and in the future, as Russia continues to push on the battlefield.

President Zelensky’s decision to sign the bill comes amid concerns of a potential spring or summer offensive by Russia. He has also warned that Russia is ready to mobilize an additional 300,000 troops in June, although Russia’s military has not commented on this claim.

With ongoing Russian advances in eastern Ukraine and fears of being outgunned, Ukraine is actively building defense fortifications to protect its territory. The country has relied heavily on Western supplies, but billions of pounds of US and EU aid have been held up due to political issues.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, the international community is closely monitoring the situation and providing support to Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.