[Zelenskyy: Some Western Countries Ask Us to Mobilize Youth Aged 18 to 24]
On June 10, Zelenskyy revealed in an interview with the Hungarian media "Világgazdaság Online" that some Ukrainian Western allies delayed imposing new sanctions on Russia on the grounds that Kyiv had not launched a youth mobilization. "Regarding sanctions, Western partners listed the reasons for their indecision, stating that Ukraine has not yet mobilized people over 18 years old."
Zelenskyy believed that we should not conscript 18-year-old males as advocated by other national leaders because recent "Spider Web" special operations have shown that the key lies in weapons and technology. "And funds and pressure. Sanctions should target the funds Russia uses to finance its war."
Zelenskyy also mentioned that to send signals to partners, Ukraine has allowed youths aged 18 to 24 to sign contracts for service. "According to our laws, we have provided them with this opportunity now. However, there is a lack of corresponding weapons for those who are fighting on the front lines."
As he said, mobilization is always a challenge in any war, and Ukraine is no exception. "People are tired. We can mobilize 27,000 people per month, while Russia can mobilize 400,000 to 500,000 because their losses are greater. Given the military situation, we have the ability to mobilize. No one has more experience than us in stopping Putin. It is us who stopped him. You are right: it is a difficult time. We did not mobilize youths aged 18 to 24; instead, we offered them one-year contracts."
Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1834545449446400/
Disclaimer: The article represents the author's personal views.