In Ukraine, the contested new law on the mobilization of soldiers came into force this weekend. Young people can now be called to fight from the age of 25, instead of the previous age of 27.
In Ukraine, the new mobilization law, a source of division in the country, came into force this Saturday as a new Russian offensive puts a strain on front-line troops.
The law which was relaxed in the face of criticism makes it easier to identify each conscript – they can now be enlisted from the age of 25.
In return, financial incentives are offered to soldiersin bonuses or in cash.
In a training center for recruits of the 3rd assault brigade, the AP agency was able to meet volunteers who had chosen to enlist. A soldier, named “Rojas”, claims that the real “hostages” of the situation are not the conscriptsbut the veterans on the front line who must be relieved.
For Oleksii, 68, owner of an automobile repair workshop, the new mobilization risks having an impact on the activity of his company, he expects 70% of his technicians to be mobilized.
Russian offensive in the Kharkiv region
This new recruitment campaign comes as Moscow intensifies these attacks in the east, on Kharkiv and its region. The country’s second city has once again been targeted. On Saturday, six people, including three children, were injured, according to the city’s mayor.
Faced with the Russian threat, Ukrainian emergency services teams are increasing civilian evacuation operations near the border. 2,500 people were thus removed from Vovchansk.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for increased international support, saying further attacks were feared.
