President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has made a significant decision that could change the lives of thousands of Ukrainian men as the country continues to face the ongoing threat of the Russian invasion. The new law signed by President Zelensky lowers the draft age from 27 to 25, a move aimed at replenishing the ranks of the Ukrainian forces that are struggling to hold back the far larger Russian Army.
The decision has sparked fear and uncertainty among many young men in Ukraine, who now face the possibility of being drafted into the military. Yegor Khomchenko, a 25-year-old bakery owner from eastern Ukraine, expressed his concerns about the new law, stating that his wife has vowed to do everything possible to prevent him from being taken away if he were to be drafted.
Similarly, Nestor Babskyi, a 23-year-old physical therapist from western Ukraine, shared his feelings of guilt for not having served in the military and his sense of dread for what may lie ahead. Despite his initial fear, he has come to terms with the idea of going to war and believes he will be more useful there than staying behind.
Oleksandr Manchenko, a 26-year-old journalist from Kharkiv, emphasized the importance of young people in shaping the future of Ukraine, acknowledging the difficult decision President Zelensky had to make in lowering the draft age. While he admires the bravery of those who have enlisted voluntarily, he expressed doubts about his own courage and desire to fight.
Maksym Sukhyi, a 27-year-old dental technician from Kyiv, has been preparing himself for the possibility of being drafted into the military. Despite the uneven training in Ukrainian military units, he is determined to be as professional as possible if called to serve in the infantry.
Vasyl Vanzhurak, a 24-year-old sawmill worker from western Ukraine, shared his mixed feelings about the prospect of joining the army, noting that his parents are more worried about him going to war than he is. Denys Yemets, a 25-year-old electrician from southern Ukraine, believes he is needed more at the steel plant where he works but is prepared to fight if called up.
As the war in Ukraine continues with no end in sight, the fate of the country’s youngest generation hangs in the balance. With the draft age lowered and the threat of ground combat looming, many young men are facing tough decisions about their future and their role in defending their homeland.
