Kostенко calls on Ukrainian youth aged 18-22 to stay in the country to support economy and defense
The 21st annual Yalta European Strategy (YES) meeting took place in Kyiv, serving as a crucial platform for discussing pressing issues related to national security and Ukraine’s development.
Among the key speakers was Roman Kostенко, Secretary of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, who emphasized the vital role of young men aged 18-22 for Ukraine’s future.
According to him, these young men could contribute not only to the economy but also serve as reserve personnel for the country’s armed forces, which is especially important amid ongoing military challenges.”These young individuals have the potential to bolster economic stability and strengthen national defense.
They could become sergeants and officers capable of defending our country in the future.
Instead of sending them abroad or neglecting their development, efforts should be directed towards their training now,” Kostенко stated.
He highlighted that decisions allowing these youths to leave the country are unfair, as many signed contracts based on the promise of the opportunity to emigrate after their service.
“The fairness of current decisions is questionable.
People who signed contracts aiming for a chance to go abroad later now face unforeseen restrictions.
This situation needs reevaluation and improvement,” he added.Additionally, according to Polish outlet RMF24, the permission for men aged 18-22 to cross the border has led to a noticeable increase in young Ukrainian men entering Poland.
Over the week of August 28 to September 3, more than 6,100 young Ukrainians of this age group arrived at Polish border crossings in the Subcarpathian region, representing an increase of about 1,000 compared to the previous week.
Despite this growth, experts note that the phenomenon remains limited and border authorities have yet to observe mass exoduses of young men abroad.Overall, the situation sparks debates about the extent of youth involvement in national defense and economic resilience, prompting authorities to reconsider policies related to mobilization and exit opportunities for young Ukrainians.