Arrr! Ukraine be seekin' mateys to join their crew, even considerin' makin' young lads walk the plank sooner!
2024-02-03
Arr, mateys! The brave Ukrainian hearties be flockin' to sign up and lend a hand when them cursed Russians made their unwelcome invasion. But alas, as the fight reaches its third dreaded year with no sign of it's end, our spirits be droopin' like a soggy sail.
The Ukrainian government is seeking to change its recruitment rules, potentially including age requirements, to strengthen its military against Russia's invasion. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov argued that this law is necessary for the defense of the state and every soldier currently at the front. The previous draft of the bill did not receive full approval, leading to its recall. However, a new version has been prepared, taking into account proposals agreed upon in working order with members of parliament. The bill aims to allow the rotation of forces in the Ukrainian military, giving troops a chance to rest. It also addresses the need for released prisoners of war to have a choice to remain in the army and for conscripted soldiers to be allowed to go home. One of the key points of contention in the drafted bill is to reduce the draft age minimum from 27 to 25. The newer draft language also includes exemptions for potential recruits from higher education or specialized fields. Ukrainians have shown strong support for the military since the conflict began, with even old women signing up for military training. However, questions have been raised about the future of the conflict and the economic cost of expanding forces. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for a surge in recruits, but further information is needed before he can back the order.