Kyiv Removes Border Curbs for Men 18–22
Ukrainian officials have declared that men in the age group 18 to 22 are permitted to travel abroad without restrictions, in a major easing of earlier curbs under martial law. Ever since Russia launched its full-scale invasion, men between 18 and 60 required special permission to go abroad, a move meant to have sufficient conscripts for the military.
Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced the update is for “all citizens” within this age bracket, including those who are already overseas, so they can return to Ukraine and depart once more if they wish. She underlined the government’s desire to keep young Ukrainians in touch with the nation despite the war.
The move follows men below 25 who are still exempt from the current national mobilization, which was reduced to a minimum age of 25 last year. Even with financial incentives to lure under-25 volunteers, the military has continued to miss its recruitment numbers, leading the government to relax travel restrictions.
Millions of Ukrainians Abroad and Continuing Mobility
More than 5.6 million Ukrainians reside abroad, mostly in Europe, according to United Nations statistics. The new guidelines seek to offer flexibility to young citizens while preserving voluntary participation in national defense. Thousands of previously attempted to exit the country using dangerous, unauthorized routes, calling for clearer and safer procedures.
Zelenskyy Considers Possible Locations for Negotiations With Putin
At the same time, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine is considering possible locations for direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He indicated that Turkey, Gulf nations, and European nations may host any such future negotiations to bring an end to the war. Zelenskyy emphasized that improvement is dependent on united pressure from global partners, especially the United States, to pressure Russia into substantive negotiations.
His chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, is in Qatar this week to meet with the defense minister of the country, again demonstrating Ukraine’s active diplomatic efforts. Zelenskyy emphasized that strict sanctions and pressure from outside are needed to shift Russia’s current position, as he stated continues to shun meaningful negotiations.
ALSO READ: Why Ukraine Won’t Give Up Donbas: 5 Key Reasons Behind Zelenskyy’s Stand
Looking Ahead
The loosening of travel restrictions for young men and Zelenskyy’s insistence on diplomatic outreach are two sides of Ukraine’s two-pronged strategy: holding on to its diaspora while actively pursuing avenues for peace. Officials hope these steps will meet the military readiness needed with the nation’s overall social and diplomatic imperatives.
