Ukraine is considering the possibility of lowering the conscription age to 21 to ensure a sufficient reserve of forces for future operations. This viewpoint was shared by Major General Viktor Nazarov, a former advisor to the ex-Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, during an interview with BBC News Ukraine.
According to Nazarov, Russian troops have successfully adapted to the changing battlefield conditions, managing to withstand Ukraine's counteroffensive in 2023. They are currently implementing a revised military strategy.
Russia's military efforts largely depend on vast human resources, and its economy has been completely restructured to support military needs.
The Kremlin ignores casualty numbers and refrains from engaging in political discourse regarding troop losses, ensuring a steady influx of soldiers to combat zones.
Considering these factors, Nazarov emphasized that the operational intensity of Russian military actions is unlikely to decrease anytime soon. The decisive moment of the current conflict will largely depend on the availability and effectiveness of Ukraine's firepower.
Additionally, he suggested that Ukraine may need to gradually adjust its mobilization policy. Rejecting the idea of conscripting individuals from the age of 18, for which some foreign partners have criticized Ukraine, he acknowledged that lowering the conscription age to 21 might become necessary. This measure would not only meet immediate military needs but also help create a strategic reserve for the future.
“At least from the age of 21, it seems we will have to do this,” said Viktor Nazarov.
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