Focus on Equipping Existing Troops, Ukraine“>Zelensky Says, Not Lowering Conscription Age
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stressed the importance of prioritizing the supply of missiles and the reduction of Russia’s military potential over lowering the conscription age in Ukraine.
In a recent message, Zelensky reiterated his stance, emphasizing that the main focus should be on supporting existing brigades with the necessary equipment and training personnel to effectively utilize this equipment.
“We must focus on providing existing brigades with equipment and training personnel to use this equipment. We should not compensate for the lack of equipment and training with the youth of soldiers,” he wrote.
Zelensky underscored that the goal should be to save as many lives as possible, rather than stockpiling weapons. “The most important thing is to work together on how to end this war. That is our top priority,” he emphasized.
He highlighted the productive conversation he had during a meeting in Paris, expressing deep gratitude to President Macron for organizing it. Zelensky also commended President Trump for his firm determination to end the war justly.
Zelensky believes that a right approach involves carefully working out all the details to ensure a truly lasting peace.
He expressed his confidence in America’s ability to achieve extraordinary results and called for the unity of America, Europe, and all those who value security worldwide. Zelensky stressed the need for a strong position and guarantees of peace.
“I told President Trump that Putin fears only him and perhaps China. And it’s true. Only determination can bring this war to a just end and ensure lasting peace. We must act now to restore proper international order,” he concluded.
No Plans to Lower Conscription Age
Rumors have circulated in the media about the possibility of lowering the conscription age in Ukraine. However, Ukrainian officials have dismissed these rumors.
On December 9, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated that if Ukraine were to lower its mobilization age to 18 years old, all recruits would be provided with full equipment.
In response to these claims, Ukrainian Member of Parliament and member of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Fyodor Venislavsky, clarified that parliament is not considering any legislative initiatives to reduce the mobilization age. He also confirmed that there is no ongoing discussion about the idea of forced mobilization of women.
How does President Zelensky’s focus on troop training and equipment reflect a potential shift in modern warfare strategy?
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is Dr. Anna Petrova, a political science expert focusing on international security and conflict resolution. Dr.Petrova, President Zelensky has made it clear that his priority is equipping existing troops rather than lowering the conscription age. He’s emphasizing saving lives over stockpiling weapons. What are your thoughts on this approach?
**Dr. Petrova:** It’s a complex situation. On one hand, President Zelensky’s focus on training and equipping existing brigades is understandable. Sending untrained and under-equipped young soldiers into battle is morally problematic and strategically unwise. However, the ongoing conflict is incredibly draining on Ukraine’s manpower.There’s a legitimate concern that even with increased equipment, Ukraine may struggle to sustain its defence without additional personnel.
**Host:** There have been rumors circulating about the US possibly encouraging a lowering of the conscription age. How do you think the international community, especially countries supporting Ukraine, should approach this issue?
**Dr. Petrova:** This is a sensitive issue. While it’s understandable that some might see lowering the conscription age as a way to bolster Ukraine’s manpower, it raises serious ethical considerations. The international community must tread carefully and prioritize the wellbeing and safety of Ukrainian citizens above all else.
**Host**: Do you think President Zelensky’s stance reflects a broader shift in thinking about modern warfare, where highly trained, well-equipped units are considered more effective than sheer numbers?
**dr. Petrova:** It certainly points towards that. This conflict has demonstrated the importance of sophisticated weaponry, intelligence gathering, and trained personnel.
**Host:** thank you for your insights, Dr. Petrova. It seems the debate around Ukraine’s conscription policy is far from over.
**Dr. Petrova:** Indeed. It’s a crucial topic that requires careful consideration and dialog.
