Ukraine lawmakers pass first reading of mobilisation bill
Al Jazeera
The legislation would tighten draft conditions as Kyiv struggles to replenish its ranks as Russian war grinds on.
Ukrainian lawmakers have passed the first reading of a revised mobilisation bill after difficulties in pushing through legislation aimed at increasing its military ranks.
The parliament tentatively backed the revised draft of the bill on Wednesday. The legislation would lower the age of military service and make it harder to avoid the draft as Kyiv struggles to find enough soldiers to maintain its defences against Russia’s invasion.
In its current form, the legislation would lower the age at which people can be mobilised for combat duty by two years to 25.
It would also require potential military personnel who are abroad to have up-to-date military registrations. Obtaining such a document would be a prerequisite to receiving consular services.
Tighter sanctions for draft evasion, including an asset freeze, are also included.
