Defense Ministry has no plans to lower conscription age below 25
He at the same time hailed the quality of training and combat readiness among contract soldiers under 25.
“Contract soldiers aged 18–24 have shown strong preparedness and confident performance in combat," he said.
"We’ve seen them on the battlefield — and it’s truly inspiring. Their professionalism, resilience, and strength of spirit are yet another testament that the younger generation is already capable of defending the country effectively.”
He added that the Defense Ministry is working on improving incentive packages and offering more benefits to those who choose to enlist under contract.
“This is a powerful human resource worth supporting and developing — and the state will continue doing so by enhancing the motivational package of the program,” he noted.
On Feb. 11, Ukraine’s Defense Ministry officially launched the voluntary Contract 18–24 program for Ukrainians ready to join the Defense Forces for one year.
On Feb. 7, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the initiative, promising high salaries for those aged 18–24 who sign one-year contracts with the military.
Andrii Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation earlier clarified that 18-year-olds cannot be drafted, as the legally established minimum age for conscription in Ukraine is 25.
The Defense Ministry has also said that men aged 18–24 who sign a contract will only be assigned to combat positions.
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