Ukraine Seeks New Recruits, Including 18-Year-Olds, Amidst Ongoing Conflict with Russia
Ukraine is facing a critical challenge in sustaining its defense against Russia, leading to a controversial push to recruit younger citizens, even those as young as 18, into the armed forces. As the conflict enters its fourth year, the Ukrainian government is grappling with the difficult decision of perhaps sacrificing a generation crucial to the country’s future, or relying on them to bolster the front lines.
Launched in February, the “Contract 18-24″ program offers young Ukrainians aged 18-24 a one-year contract with the army in exchange for 1 million grivas (approximately 22,000 euros).This includes an initial payment of 4,575 euros upon signing, alongside benefits such as training, free medical service, zero-interest mortgages, and the opportunity for international travel.
The move comes as the Ukrainian army, with an average troop age of around 45, urgently needs new recruits. this need is exacerbated by Russia’s demographic advantage and its capacity to employ mercenaries. The potential easing of border restrictions is met with mixed reactions within the military.One soldier, nicknamed “boomer,” expressed caution, stating, “I am at war so that my children do not have to fight, but we have to know who will do it after me.”
However, the proposal has also sparked strong opposition. A soldier from a safety and maintenance battalion, who wished to remain anonymous, called it “a betrayal to those who are serving in the army” and an ”absolute outrage.”
Currently, two bills regarding border crossing for younger citizens are being considered in the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament). One proposal seeks to raise the age limit for potential recruits to 24.
Data from the Ukrainian Lab Sociological Research Center indicates that young people aged 25-34 are most likely to consider leaving the country, followed by those aged 20-24 and 16-19. Of those frequently contemplating emigration, 60% cite the war or the risk of losing their lives as a significant factor. Oleksii Antipovich, director of the center, questions whether the government’s reform risks “depleting human capital and the quarry of military recruits,” acknowledging the possibility but emphasizing that Ukrainian decisions will ultimately depend on the war’s progression and duration.
Mark Niemchuk, a 21-year-old university student in Lviv, does not believe his time to join the army has come and admits to not closely following the “current situation of war,” despite acknowledging widespread awareness of Russia’s actions and “war crimes.” He echoes the sentiment of government official Yulia Sviridenko, seeing a potential positive side to the program, stating, “It is indeed a great option to gather families after such a long period of war. It might very well be an opportunity for me, but not for now.”
