**Ukraine Offers Huge Incentives to Young Recruits**
The Ukrainian military is planning to offer huge benefits to young recruits. Those aged 18-24 will be exempt from conscription and receive a Hr 1 million ($24,000) salary per year. They will also get a 0% interest mortgage rate and free higher education.
**President Zelensky Promises Details Soon**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says all details of the “special contracts” will be made public soon. He was speaking to the president of the European Investment Bank, Nadia Calvino. The move comes after reports that Ukraine is considering lowering its draft age from 25 to 18.
**Ukraine Faces Manpower Shortage**
The Ukrainian military faces a critical shortage of soldiers. The country has been at war with Russia for three years and has lost many soldiers in battle-hardened brigades. Enlisting in the military currently means signing up until the war ends, but a one-year contract option would appeal to those interested in contributing for a limited period.
**US Advocates Lowering Draft Age**
The US has advocated for lowering Ukraine’s draft age as part of broader efforts to address personnel needs. However, Ukraine has long opposed this pressure from the US, with President Zelensky arguing it would harm the country’s future prospects.
**Ukrainian Economy Rises**
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian economy is rising after being frozen due to Russia’s war. The stock price index on the Warsaw Stock Exchange rose by almost 25% in a few days, reaching pre-war levels.
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