Ukraine is turning to financial reforms and military modernization to address its infantry shortages, opting against lowering the mobilization age from 25 to 18, as proposed by Mike Waltz, the incoming US National Security Advisor under President-elect Donald Trump.

The suggestion to reduce the draft age has faced strong opposition within Ukraine, where mandatory enlistment of younger citizens is seen as unpopular and ineffective in addressing deeper mobilization issues. Instead, the country is prioritizing economic recovery and reforms to attract volunteers and fund cutting-edge weaponry.
Ukrainian officials believe that advanced technology and strategic resources are more vital than increasing troop numbers to counter their larger adversary, signaling a shift toward a more sustainable and public-supported defense strategy.