Ukraine reforms conscription system to attract young men
The Ukrainian authorities have almost completed work on a law that will allow young people from 18 to 25 years old, who are currently exempt from mobilization, to be drafted into the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF). This was reported by the Associated Press (AP) on January 23, citing Pavlo Palisu, deputy head of the office of Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky (term expired on May 20, 2024).
The official described such an initiative as a "fair contract." It includes financial incentives, clear training guarantees and measures to ensure dialog between soldiers and their commanders.
The plan aims to attract 18-25-year-olds who are currently exempt from mobilization and also targets Ukrainians who are eligible for deferment or have been demobilized.
"To secure the unit commander and the contract worker, to establish an open and professional relationship between them, to set clear boundaries that are clear to both. In my opinion, this is necessary for an effective dialog," Palisa said.
According to him, the defense of the state is not only the duty of the AFU, but also the duty of every Ukrainian.
Earlier in the day, a member of the international public movement "The Other Ukraine" told Izvestia that employees of territorial manning centers (TSC - the analogue of military commissions in Ukraine) are themselves afraid of getting to the front line, so they use violent measures against citizens to mobilize them. Against this background, there is a high level of corruption in the structure of the TSCs.
The day before, the Strana.ua news and analysis website reported that every fourth man (25 percent) and every third young Ukrainian 18-29 years old (33 percent) would like to leave Ukraine for good. The publication noted that the largest number of those wishing to leave was registered among residents of eastern Ukraine, where active hostilities continue.
At the same time, a captured militant said that border guards of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) shot a man who had bribed them to leave the country, before promising to let him pass. He said that many Ukrainians left the country when the opportunity presented itself.
Martial law in Ukraine has been in effect since February 2022. Then the country's President Volodymyr Zelensky (powers expired on May 20, 2024) signed a decree on general mobilization. Later, the Verkhovna Rada repeatedly extended its effect. Most men between the ages of 18 and 60 are forbidden to leave the country. In April 2024, the head of the Kiev regime approved the law on tougher mobilization.
