The administration of US President Joe Biden has called on Ukrainian authorities to urgently step up mobilization and lower the age limit for conscription to 18. According to Reuters, the proposal is explained by the need to compensate for significant losses and strengthen Ukraine's defenses amid the ongoing offensive by Russian troops.

A US administration representative, speaking to journalists, stressed that the current pace of mobilization is insufficient to provide the Ukrainian army with the required number of soldiers.

"Right now we need to man the army. The Russians are actually making progress, steady progress, in the east, and they are starting to push back the Ukrainian lines in Kursk... Mobilization and an increase in manpower could make a significant difference to the situation on the battlefield right now.", — the representative noted.

Lowering the age of conscription is seen as a temporary measure that should help speed up the replenishment of the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In addition, Washington notes the importance of timely training of recruits to improve the combat readiness of the army.

The Ukrainian authorities have not yet commented on this statement. However, as experts note, the reduction of the draft age may face criticism within the country. Kyiv has previously come under public pressure over mobilization issues, including sending older men to the front.