Ukrainian Families Protest for 18-Month Cap on Compulsory Military Service Amid Ongoing War

Protestors lobby Ukraine's parliament for change as war with Russia grinds into its 20th month, amid reports of increasing human costs and depleting resources on both sides.

• Scores of Ukrainian protestors, comprising mainly family members of soldiers, have rallied for a cap of 18 months on mandatory military service, taking their demands to Ukraine’s parliament, the Verkhovna Rada. They seek the reintroduction of pre-war service limits, which are currently indefinite for drafted servicemen.
• Despite ongoing conflict and increasing military demands, Ukrainian public support for the fight against Russia's invasion reportedly remains strong. In contrast, Russian forces are experiencing morale issues as they face another winter campaign, with reports of soldiers being executed for disobedience and threats made against entire units.
• The eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka has become a significant drain on resources for both Russia and Ukraine. Despite its current ruinous state, the city's strategic location could provide Ukrainian forces with artillery advantages and potentially serve as a launch pad for liberating Donetsk.
• The conflict in Avdiivka has been costly for Russian forces in terms of lives and resources. Approximately 5,000 Russian soldiers have been killed or wounded, and around 400 armored vehicles have been lost since October 10, with the failed effort to surround the city weakening Russia's offensive capabilities over the long term, according to the Institute for the Study of War.
• As resources deplete, Russia has allegedly turned to North Korea and Iran to replenish its stockpiles, while Ukraine calls upon its Western allies for continued support. Meanwhile, divisions are appearing within the European Union over support for Ukraine, with Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán maintaining relations with Russia.

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