A senior US official suggested that Ukraine should consider lowering the minimum age for military service from 25 to 18 to address manpower shortages in the ongoing war with Russia, Reuters reports.
The official emphasized that Ukraine is not mobilizing or training enough new soldiers to replace battlefield losses, as Russian forces make significant advances, particularly in the eastern regions. Ukraine had already reduced its conscription age from 27 to 25 earlier this year, but faces challenges in equipping new troops, citing delays in international military supplies. The US and Germany have reportedly pressed Ukraine to lower the conscription age further, though Ukrainian leaders are concerned about the political and logistical difficulties.
The Biden administration continues to support Ukraine with military aid, including artillery, rockets, and vehicles. However, the lack of new recruits poses a challenge, as existing units cannot rotate for rest and resupply without fresh soldiers.
