Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that Ukraine is facing a serious shortage of military personnel caused by the mass exodus of men abroad and limited human resources. In this regard, he proposed lowering the conscription age from 25 to 22–23 years, Politico reported, citing Klitschko’s interview with Axel Springer Global Reporters Network.
Source: Pryamyi
According to the mayor, nearly four years of war have severely affected the state’s ability to replenish its army. He compared the situation to a “computer game” in which Russian forces continuously advance despite heavy losses.
“Previously, 18-year-olds served in the army, but they are still children. Now conscription begins at 25. It could be reduced by a year or two — to 23 or 22,” Klitschko said.
The publication notes that his remarks coincide with the growing outflow of young Ukrainians. In August, the government allowed men aged 18–22 to travel abroad, leading to an increase in those seeking temporary protection in EU countries. In September alone, European states granted over 79,000 temporary protection decisions to Ukrainians.
Klitschko emphasized the imbalance between Ukraine’s resources and the size of the Russian army, noting that while Ukrainian courage remains unwavering, the country’s future depends on whether it can bring its youth back after the war.
“We’ll be happy if at least half of the young people return. But to make that happen, we need peace, jobs, and a high quality of life. After the war, we’ll face enormous challenges,” he concluded.
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