Wed Nov 27 22:11:24 UTC 2024: ## Biden Urges Ukraine to Lower Draft Age Amidst Troop Shortages

**Washington, Nov 28, 2024** – The outgoing Biden administration is pressing Ukraine to significantly increase its military force by lowering the conscription age to 18 and revamping its mobilization laws. This urgent request comes as Ukraine faces a growing troop shortage in its ongoing war with Russia, exacerbated by the arrival of thousands of North Korean troops supporting Moscow.

A senior Biden administration official, speaking anonymously, stated that Ukraine needs more soldiers to counter Russia’s superior numbers and replace battlefield losses. While Ukraine currently has over 1 million troops, the US estimates an additional 160,000, or possibly more, are needed. This concern is shared by other Western allies, who worry about Ukraine’s ability to sustain operations, particularly near the Kursk region.

The US has provided over $56 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, but the Biden administration believes that increasing troop numbers is now crucial. Lowering the draft age from 25 to 18 would significantly expand the pool of potential recruits. However, this faces opposition from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has publicly stated he has no such plans. A senior Ukrainian official, also speaking anonymously, suggested that this US pressure is a deflection from delays in providing equipment and authorization for longer-range weapons.

Ukraine’s parliament previously lowered the draft age to 25, adding approximately 50,000 troops—far short of the needed numbers. Concerns remain about the economic impact of further lowering the age and taking more young adults out of the workforce.

The urgency stems from the impending inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, who has expressed intentions to swiftly end the war and raised questions about continued US military support. Experts acknowledge the difficult choices facing Ukraine, but emphasize that addressing the manpower shortage is critical for the country’s continued defense.

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