US Presses Ukraine to Lower Draft Age from 25 to 18 Amid Russian Advances

Nov 27, 2024, 06:21 PM

The Biden administration is urging Ukraine to lower its conscription age from 25 to 18 to bolster troop numbers in its ongoing conflict with Russia. A senior U.S. official stated that "the need right now is manpower," as Ukraine is not mobilizing or training enough soldiers to replace battlefield losses and keep pace with Russia's growing military. Officials warn that Russia is making steady progress in the east, pushing back Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna responded that Ukraine doesn't need to lower its draft age, emphasizing that "the US should equip Ukraine’s brigades with the training and weapons they need to defend the country." Reports of the U.S. urging Ukraine to lower the draft age were published by AP and Reuters. Ukrainian officials have been hesitant to lower the draft age due to concerns about demographic challenges and the nation's future.