US Presses Ukraine to Lower Draft Age as Troop Shortages Mount

The Biden administration emphasizes manpower over weapons in Ukraine's war effort, urging conscription of 18-year-olds to counter battlefield losses.

The Biden administration has urged Ukraine to lower its military draft age from 25 to 18 to address critical troop shortages in its fight against Russia.
US officials argue that Ukraine is not mobilizing or training enough soldiers to replace battlefield losses, as Russian forces make steady advances in the east.
President Zelenskyy and his advisors have rejected the proposal, citing delays in receiving promised Western weapons and a lack of resources to equip current troops.
The White House has reiterated its commitment to providing weapons and training but views manpower as Ukraine's most pressing need for sustaining the war effort.
The push comes as the Biden administration races to bolster Ukraine's position before President-elect Donald Trump, who has signaled a different approach to the conflict, takes office in January.