“Mobilization is crucial. Even with funding and ammunition,
there must be people on the front lines to counter Russian aggression. Ukraine
has to make tough decisions about further mobilization, but these are necessary
choices,” Blinken stated during a press conference in Brussels on Dec. 4,
according to Interfax-Ukraine.
He emphasized that allies must ensure every mobilized
Ukrainian soldier receives the training and equipment needed to defend the
country effectively.
On Nov. 19, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine does
not plan to lower the mobilization age. He added that while partners may prefer
a lower age, he considers it risky.
On Dec. 2, The Washington Post reported that the Biden
administration was disappointed by Zelenskyy’s decision not to reduce the
conscription age.
Currently, individuals aged 18 to 25 can sign a one-year
military service contract.
On Nov. 22, a high-ranking NV source in the Ukrainian Armed
Forces said Ukraine is developing a new military contract format for
youth aged 18 to 24.
On Nov. 29, Ivan Tymochko, head of the Ground Forces
Reservists Council, stated that all men aged 18 to 25 will undergo mandatory
basic military training next year.