"Ukraine Considers Expanding Draft Amid Soldier Shortage"

Ukraine is facing a critical shortage of soldiers as it struggles to repel Russian forces, with many men evading the draft through hiding or bribery. The Ukrainian government is considering unpopular legislation to expand the draft by lowering the enlistment age and increasing the potential pool of recruits by about 400,000. The lack of soldiers has left units exhausted and depleted, with soldiers fighting for extended periods and suffering from chronic illnesses. The legislation faces opposition and questions about its effectiveness in changing the situation on the battlefield, as Ukraine seeks to mobilize up to 500,000 more men while grappling with the ethical and practical challenges of conscription.