Ukraine prepares 'honest contract' for mobilization of 18-year-olds – Deputy Yermak.

The Ukrainian authorities are preparing a reform to attract young men to the military. This was stated by Pavlo Palisa, Deputy Head of the President's Office and former commander of the 'Kholodnyi Yar' brigade, in an interview with the Associated Press.

According to him, the authorities are looking for new ways to engage people in military service, as the current conscription system is not effective.

One of the initiatives is the 'honest contract', aimed at recruiting young people aged 18-25, as well as those who have received deferrals. It provides for financial incentives, guarantees of training, and ensuring dialogue between soldiers and their commanders.

This plan, which is a response to U.S. calls to lower the military age, is in the final stages of development.

According to Palisa, it is important to ensure good relationships between commanders and soldiers, to establish clear boundaries for both sides. He believes that this is a key element of effective dialogue.

The Deputy Head of the President's Office also noted that Ukraine has a large reserve for mobilization, but the current system does not allow for its full utilization. The authorities are now analyzing the reasons for the insufficient mobilization potential together with the Cabinet of Ministers and the Ministry of Defense.

It should be noted that from September 1, 2025, basic military training will be mandatory for students of higher educational institutions. It will consist of theoretical and practical courses. The practical course will be mandatory for men, but women will also have the opportunity to take this course if they pass the military medical commission and are registered with the Territorial Military Commissariat.

President Zelensky stated that more than 100 brigades in combat conditions require equipment updates. He believes this should be a priority for international partners.