Ukraine weighing 'radical' mobilization changes amid recruitment challenges, official says

Ukraine is considering significant changes to its mobilization system, with a focus on addressing recruitment challenges, according to Roman Kostenko, the secretary of the parliamentary defense committee. Kostenko revealed that the government is in discussions about potential revisions to the draft age amidst the ongoing fifth year of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine.

Financial incentives offered to encourage Ukrainians to sign military contracts have not significantly boosted recruitment, prompting officials to explore alternative measures. While no decisions have been finalized, Kostenko declined to comment on whether the draft age could be lowered or raised. The lawmaker emphasized that Ukraine intends to maintain compulsory mobilization rather than adopting a fully voluntary system.

Additionally, Kostenko dismissed reports suggesting the government is considering eliminating mobilization exemptions for families with three or more children, stating that no such legislative initiatives are currently under consideration. The decision regarding women's participation in mobilization remains unchanged, with military service for women still being voluntary.

As the conflict persists, mobilization has emerged as a major domestic issue in Ukraine, with draft offices facing accusations of forced conscription and ill-treatment of conscripts under martial law. Ukraine currently subjects men aged 25 to 60 to conscription, prohibiting them from leaving the country without specific exceptions.

Meanwhile, Russia plans to mobilize around 300,000 people after the State Duma elections in September, though the military campaign will avoid major cities to avoid public backlash, as reported by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.