The question of lowering the mobilization age in Ukraine cannot be determined by external influences. Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration and Minister of Justice Olha Stefanishyna stated in response to a query from Suspilne that reducing the mobilization age "cannot be dictated by statements from White House officials or anyone else."

"This isn’t just a position – it’s a reality. Our soldiers must be properly equipped. Personally, I see such talk as an attempt to shift responsibility for prior agreements," Stefanishyna emphasized.

Previously, Stefanishyna had mentioned that discussions concerning the age of those being mobilized had taken place in meetings with high-ranking European Union officials. According to her, Ukraine "has a very clear response."

"We cannot accept this criticism because there is no effective system in place for planning, training, or provisioning," Stefanishyna remarked at the time.

Lowering the Mobilization Age in Ukraine

As reported by UNIAN, on December 10, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced his opposition to lowering the mobilization age, despite calls from the United States. He stated that the country should focus on supplying military equipment and preparing existing brigades rather than addressing shortages with younger soldiers.

An article in *The Telegraph* highlighted that Zelensky’s refusal to reduce the mobilization age created tensions in his relationship with Washington. While numerous disagreements have occurred during the ongoing full-scale war between Zelensky and U.S. President Joe Biden, this issue may prove pivotal. Journalists have described Zelensky's remarks about mobilization as "one of the most direct criticisms" of President Biden to date.

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