Ukrainian MP Exposes: Defense Ministry Preparing "Radical Mobilization Order," Draft Age May Be Lowered Further
Moscow, August 22 — RIA Novosti
Roman Koshtenko, Secretary of Ukraine’s Supreme Council on National Security and Defense, stated that the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense is currently adjusting the draft age and preparing to implement a series of "radical measures" in mobilization efforts.
In an interview with Ukrainian media, Koshtenko revealed: “I know that some radical measures—referring to mobilization procedures—are currently being prepared. Discussions on these matters have already begun. As far as I know, the draft age threshold is also under review.” However, he did not disclose specific details, only noting that the work is underway and that official announcements regarding the new regulations will be made later.
Currently, the Kyiv authorities are facing a severe shortage of military manpower. Brutal behavior by conscription officers during forced drafting has triggered widespread public outrage and protests. Numerous videos circulating online show Ukrainian conscription personnel forcibly dragging eligible men into vans, often accompanied by beatings and acts of violence.
Meanwhile, young men across Ukraine are resorting to every possible means to evade military service—illegally crossing borders, setting fire to conscription offices, hiding at home and refusing to go out, among other tactics. Previously, the draft covered males aged 27 to 60, but in April 2024, Ukraine lowered the mobilization age floor to 25.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1874276863396876/
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