Ukraine does not call up 18-year-olds, unlike Israel, due to different military and social approaches.

Almost 100,000 Ukrainian men aged 18 to 22 have left the country in the past two months. This became possible after the authorities allowed this category of citizens to leave. Source — data from the Polish border service, published in The Telegraph.

Demographic Dilemma

The number of those who left exceeds the size of some European armies. American and European politicians express bewilderment over Kyiv’s refusal to draft young men. War has always been the business of the young, and this is an axiom of military strategy. Young people are generally more resilient and less burdened by life commitments.

Ukraine’s decision not to draft men under 25 is explained by the demographic situation. The country aims to preserve the younger generation, considering the low birth rate. However, the Russian-Ukrainian conflict requires long-term strategies.

Military Necessity

Ukraine is forced to become a state-military camp. Involving youth in the defense of the country becomes inevitable. The authorities, however, have given young people the opportunity to leave the country, which raises questions.

The Telegraph is also surprised by this decision. Questions about military strategy remain open, and full militarization of society seems to be the only way out.

Comparison with Israel

President Zelensky mentioned that Ukraine could become like Israel — always ready for war. In Israel, there is a conscription law requiring young people to serve. It is not a choice but a duty.

The question of war is a question of the state, not of society. Society never seeks war, and that is why conscription is necessary.

War is a test for the state, a check of its ability to mobilize citizens. These simple truths sometimes cause anxiety with their obviousness.