Key facts
- Ukraine is considering significant changes to its mobilization system.
- Potential revisions to the draft age are being discussed.
- Financial incentives have not led to a substantial increase in recruitment.
- Ukraine will maintain compulsory mobilization.
- Mobilization exemptions for parents with three or more children are not being considered for elimination.
- Military service for women will remain voluntary.
Ukraine is preparing significant changes to its mobilization system, including potential revisions to the draft age, as recruitment challenges persist into the fifth year of Russia's full-scale war. Roman Kostenko, secretary of the parliamentary defense committee, stated on August 22 that financial incentives offered to encourage Ukrainians to sign military contracts have not significantly increased recruitment, prompting consideration of other measures. Kostenko indicated that discussions are underway regarding changes to the draft age, with further details expected from the Defense Ministry or General Staff, though he declined to specify whether the age would be lowered or raised. He also denied reports that authorities are considering eliminating mobilization exemptions for parents with three or more children, stating no such legislative initiatives are under consideration. Military service for women will remain voluntary, he added. Under martial law, Ukrainian men aged 25 to 60 are currently subject to conscription and face restrictions on leaving the country. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on August 23 that Russia plans to mobilize approximately 300,000 people after State Duma elections in September, aiming to minimize societal backlash by not touching major cities.