Ukraine weighs unpopular plan to expand draft

Two years ago, when the Russian army launched a full-scale invasion, Ukrainian men eagerly flocked to recruitment centers nationwide, prepared to sacrifice their lives in defense of their homeland.

As of today, with Russia controlling approximately one-quarter of Ukraine and the two armies locked in a virtual stalemate along a 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) front line, the enthusiasm for enlistment has waned.

Many Ukrainian men are now avoiding the draft by hiding at home or attempting to secure exemptions through bribery.

Along the cold and muddy front line, commanders express concerns about the size of their army, consisting of fatigued and injured soldiers.

In the third year of the war, Ukraine faces a critical and politically sensitive challenge—whether it can mobilize enough new soldiers to counter an adversary with a significantly larger fighting force.

Russia’s population surpasses Ukraine’s by more than three times, and President Vladimir Putin has demonstrated a readiness to compel individuals to the front lines if voluntary recruitment falls short.

The shortage of soldiers is not the sole issue; Ukraine also grapples with a desperate need for Western military aid, which becomes scarcer as the conflict persists.

However, the primary dilemma of mobilizing sufficient soldiers remains a challenge that only Ukraine can address, the Associated Press reported.

READ MORE: https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-draft-b2ca1d0ecd72019be2217a653989fbc2

Links for B.C.

Visit My Website
https://bcbegley.com

Follow Me On Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/B.C.Begley

Subscribe To My Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/bcbegley

Watch Me On YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoUf-QQTlTN-BIh3ERCE9A

Follow Me On Twitter
https://twitter.com/BC_News1

Watch Me On Rumble
https://rumble.com/c/c-280191

Follow Me On Gab
https://gab.com/BC_Begley