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Zelensky declares attempt to recruit younger men
(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has announced plans to expand military recruitment efforts by targeting younger men, citing a growing need for reinforcements in several brigades.
During a press briefing on Monday, Zelensky stated that the military leadership had approved a new initiative focused on enlisting citizens aged 18 to 24. While mandatory conscription currently applies to men over 24, the government aims to encourage younger recruits through financial incentives.
“I visited the front on Saturday, and some brigades require additional personnel. We will be responding positively to this need,” Zelensky said. “This expansion will also apply to the National Guard and border security forces, ensuring all effective defense units can strengthen their ranks.”
Under a recruitment program launched in February, volunteers are offered 1 million hryvnia ($24,000) for a year of service, along with free dental care and the unique option to leave Ukraine after completing their contract—a privilege not granted to other fighting-age men.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has promoted the campaign with advertisements highlighting what recruits can buy with the money, equating it to 15,625 cheeseburgers or 185 years of Netflix subscriptions. The approach has drawn criticism from some who view it as disrespectful to potential soldiers.
In 2023, Zelensky lowered the minimum conscription age from 27 to 25 but hesitated to reduce it further, citing economic and demographic concerns. However, Western allies have urged Ukraine to enlist younger men, warning that an aging military is weakening its combat effectiveness.
The push for recruitment comes as Ukraine faces increasing pressure in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, Washington continues its diplomatic efforts to mediate a resolution, securing a 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure strikes between Moscow and Kiev. However, Russia has accused Ukraine of violating the agreement and has threatened to withdraw from the deal.
In parallel, US officials recently met separately with Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Saudi Arabia to explore the possible revival of the Black Sea Initiative, aimed at ensuring maritime trade routes remain operational.
During a press briefing on Monday, Zelensky stated that the military leadership had approved a new initiative focused on enlisting citizens aged 18 to 24. While mandatory conscription currently applies to men over 24, the government aims to encourage younger recruits through financial incentives.
“I visited the front on Saturday, and some brigades require additional personnel. We will be responding positively to this need,” Zelensky said. “This expansion will also apply to the National Guard and border security forces, ensuring all effective defense units can strengthen their ranks.”
Under a recruitment program launched in February, volunteers are offered 1 million hryvnia ($24,000) for a year of service, along with free dental care and the unique option to leave Ukraine after completing their contract—a privilege not granted to other fighting-age men.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has promoted the campaign with advertisements highlighting what recruits can buy with the money, equating it to 15,625 cheeseburgers or 185 years of Netflix subscriptions. The approach has drawn criticism from some who view it as disrespectful to potential soldiers.
In 2023, Zelensky lowered the minimum conscription age from 27 to 25 but hesitated to reduce it further, citing economic and demographic concerns. However, Western allies have urged Ukraine to enlist younger men, warning that an aging military is weakening its combat effectiveness.
The push for recruitment comes as Ukraine faces increasing pressure in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, Washington continues its diplomatic efforts to mediate a resolution, securing a 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure strikes between Moscow and Kiev. However, Russia has accused Ukraine of violating the agreement and has threatened to withdraw from the deal.
In parallel, US officials recently met separately with Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Saudi Arabia to explore the possible revival of the Black Sea Initiative, aimed at ensuring maritime trade routes remain operational.
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