Reform of Conscription: What We Know
It is important for Russian-speaking readers to understand: these statements are directly related to the needs of the Ukrainian army for personnel against the backdrop of ongoing hostilities. There have been no official parameters for the future changes announced yet.
Ukraine is preparing for significant changes in the mobilization system, which may include changes to the conscription age. Roman Kostenko, the secretary of the parliamentary committee on national security, defense, and intelligence, stated this during the broadcast of the project 'Big Lviv Speaks.' He did not specify in which direction the age limit may change but noted that the authorities are already developing new ways to attract people to military service.
According to Kostenko, the current system of material incentives has not met expectations: the number of those willing to sign contracts is not increasing. In this regard, 'radical' measures are being prepared; however, there are no plans to abandon mandatory conscription. No decisions will be made that would turn compulsory and lawful mobilization into voluntary mobilization.
'For those who hope that mobilization will become voluntary — if you want, you go, if you don't want, you refuse — such decisions will definitely not be made. And it is unlikely that any options will satisfy everyone because those who really wanted to defend the country are already in the army. Now we need to find the right way to attract those who are dodging.'Roman Kostenko
What to Expect from the New Minister of Defense
President Volodymyr Zelensky, in turn, expects the new Minister of Defense, Yevhen Khmara, to take concrete steps regarding mobilization and contract service. He also emphasized that 'the nature of the war is changing, and technologies are developing very rapidly' — which requires a review of military policy.
As a result, Ukraine is in the process of preparing changes to the mobilization system. These may affect the conscription age and strategies for recruiting military personnel. Authorities continue to seek effective solutions to strengthen defense capabilities in light of the new nature of war and technological progress.
- New mobilization rules are capable of significantly changing the age structure of the armed forces.
- Changes will impact the overall balance of power, which is especially significant in the context of a prolonged conflict.
- Strategic planning and the ability to quickly adapt to new conditions are acquiring key importance for the country's security.