**Ukraine’s Military Sees Surge in Applications After Introducing Lucrative Contracts**
The Ukrainian military has received over 10,000 applications from young volunteers aged 18 to 24. This comes after the Defense Ministry introduced “special contracts” that offer a number of benefits, including a Hr 1 million ($24,000) annual salary and free higher education.
These contracts are aimed at recruiting additional military personnel who are not subject to mobilization. They also provide a way for young people to contribute to the war effort without having to serve a full conscription period.
**Why Did Ukraine Introduce Special Contracts?**
Ukraine’s Defense Ministry has faced a critical manpower shortage, struggling to replenish infantry gaps left by heavy losses in battle-hardened brigades. By introducing special contracts, Kyiv hopes to bridge the gap between its current recruitment levels and what it needs to maintain an effective military.
**What Do the Contracts Offer?**
The “special contracts” offer a range of benefits, including:
* A Hr 1 million ($24,000) annual salary
* 0% interest mortgage rates
* Free higher education
* The option to travel abroad after completing one year of service
These incentives are likely to appeal to young people who want to contribute to the war effort for a limited period.
**What’s Happening in Ukraine?**
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, with both sides engaging in intense fighting. Ukrainian troops have reportedly held their positions despite heavy Russian attacks, resulting in significant losses on both sides.
**International Efforts to Resolve the Conflict**
The international community is also working towards resolving the conflict. The United States has urged Ukraine to lower its draft age from 25 to 18 to address manpower shortages. However, Kyiv has long opposed this move, citing concerns about the impact on its future prospects.
In recent days, there have been discussions between U.S. and Russian officials to find a way out of the conflict. A meeting is scheduled in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the two sides will discuss how to end the war in Ukraine.
**Ukraine’s President Stresses Urgency**
President Volodymyr Zelensky has stressed the urgency of finding a solution to the conflict, warning against a hastily negotiated peace deal from the Trump administration. He reaffirmed that Ukraine would not accept a peace deal negotiated without its involvement.
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