Ukraine’s Defence Ministry has launched a new recruitment campaign, calling on young citizens aged 18 to 24 to serve in the military for a year in exchange for 1 million hryvnias (approximately $24,000) and additional bonuses.

The initiative aims to strengthen Ukraine’s armed forces, which remain heavily outnumbered in the ongoing war against Russia. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy recently confirmed the campaign in an interview with Reuters, emphasizing the need for more recruits on the front lines.

A promotional video circulating on social media appeals to potential volunteers with the message, "Change your life in a year." The contract offers financial incentives along with subsidized mortgages, rent benefits, and a 12-month exemption from mobilisation after completing the service.

Ukraine’s parliament recently passed a law lowering the draft age from 27 to 25 and enforcing penalties for draft evasion. However, changes to the mobilisation process have faced public resistance, particularly from soldiers who have remained on the front lines since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022 without significant leave.

With Ukraine’s military currently numbering around 980,000 personnel, it still faces a numerical disadvantage against Russia, whose military strength was expanded to 1.5 million active servicemen by order of President Vladimir Putin last year.

The Defence Ministry’s campaign promotes "professional military training to NATO standards" and highlights exclusive social benefits unavailable in civilian jobs. The recruitment message stresses urgency with the slogan, "Time is a bonus. Hesitation is a minus."

As Ukraine continues its defense efforts, the effectiveness of this recruitment drive will be closely monitored amid challenges in maintaining troop levels and sustaining public support.