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HomeTop NewsZelenskyy Rejects Lower Draft Age, Stresses Unity and Training to End War

Zelenskyy Rejects Lower Draft Age, Stresses Unity and Training to End War

Kyiv [Ukraine], December 10: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed reports on lowering the draft age for Ukrainians to join the frontlines, emphasizing the importance of equipping and training existing military personnel over enlisting younger recruits. Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine’s focus must remain on reducing Russia’s military capabilities and preserving lives.

“There’s a lot of discussion about lowering the draft age. Our priority must be equipping existing brigades and training personnel to effectively use this equipment. We must not compensate for a lack of training and equipment with the youth of soldiers,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.

“The focus should be on providing missiles and weakening Russia’s military potential, not reducing Ukraine’s draft age. Preserving lives must take precedence over preserving weapons in storage,” he added.

Unity Among Global Allies

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to French President Emmanuel Macron and US President-elect Donald Trump for their efforts to bring the war to a “just end.” Reflecting on their recent meeting in Paris during the Notre Dame reopening, he emphasized the importance of global unity.

“I thank President Macron for organizing the productive discussions in Paris and President Trump for his resolve to end this war fairly. The unity of America, Europe, and all who value security is critical to achieving peace,” Zelenskyy said.

Zelenskyy also remarked on Trump’s unique influence in the conflict. “I told President Trump that Putin fears only him and, perhaps, China. Decisive action is needed now to restore international order and ensure lasting peace,” he wrote.

Calls for International Support Amid Growing Pressure

Zelenskyy’s comments come after reports suggested the U.S. is urging Ukraine to lower the draft age from 25 to 18, citing the urgent need for manpower as Russia makes steady progress in eastern Ukraine.

According to an Al Jazeera report, a senior U.S. official highlighted the need for additional recruits to replenish forces. “The battlefield situation requires more manpower as Russia pushes back Ukrainian lines. Mobilization is critical to making a significant difference,” the official stated.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration is reportedly preparing a new weapons package for Kyiv ahead of President Joe Biden’s departure from office in January, further emphasizing the need for immediate action.

Path to Peace

Zelenskyy reiterated that the ultimate goal is ending the war through unity and strong guarantees for peace. “The most important priority is working together to end this war. Action, decisiveness, and unity are essential to restoring order and ensuring durable peace,” he concluded.

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