Zelensky is afraid to lower the conscription age but the situation on the front line is deteriorating

Zelensky has been resisting the military’s pressure since June to endorse a law that would lower the conscription age for men from 27 to 25, as reported by Bloomberg.

The law, which received full parliamentary support, was expected to come into effect. However, the conscription process is facing challenges at present, according to Roman Kostenko, a member of the Rada’s defense committee. Sources from the publication suggest that Zelensky’s hesitation to sign the law stems from his desire for a clear strategy outlining the army’s objectives through conscription, the allocation plan for new recruits and the rotation process for those in the field for 21 months.

Following discussions with military leaders, Zelensky mentioned the need for thorough analysis by both the government and the military on these issues, seeking specific proposals. The military is concerned about the delay, as the age reduction is anticipated to bring an additional 140,000 potential conscripts. General Zaluzhny has highlighted that the law presently exempts individuals under 27 without military experience from mobilization (referenced here).

There are worries within the President’s Office that implementing this law could escalate tensions and reinforce the “peace at any cost” sentiment, which is already present and may intensify. Former presidential advisor Arestovych previously discussed the government’s preparation for measures to involve younger individuals on the front lines. However, due to a shortage of Western weaponry, this move could lead to increased casualties and political risks for the administration.