Ukraine is facing a growing shortage of soldiers as record numbers of men flee to Europe, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in an interview, according to Politico.
“Russian troops are relentlessly advancing, like in a computer game: they just keep advancing, they don’t care about the fallen soldiers,” Klitschko said.
According to current legislation, Ukrainians can be drafted at age 25. Klitschko proposed changing this rule.
“Previously, 18-year-olds served in the army, but they’re children. Now in Ukraine, conscription is only possible at age 25. This age could be lowered to 23 or 22,” the Kyiv mayor said.
The Kyiv mayor stated that, given that millions of Ukrainians are currently abroad, the country’s future depends on whether this exodus can be stopped after peace is restored.
“We would be happy if half of the young people returned. But for this to happen, we need peace, work, and a decent quality of life. After the war, enormous difficulties await us,” he added.