Ukraine is implementing ambitious offers to attract Gen Z enlistees into its military as the conflict with Russia reaches its third year and personnel deficits worsen. Under a new program titled “Contract 18-24,” the Ukrainian government is providing generous cash incentives, mortgage assistance, free schooling, and travel opportunities to recruit young adults into voluntary military service, The Wall Street Journal reports.
The program appeals to 18- to 24-year-olds with a one-year commitment in the military in return for rewards much greater than typical national salaries. Recruits earn a $24,000 signing bonus, monthly salary approaching $3,000 six times the national average coupled with no-cost university education, reduced healthcare, and possible travel abroad.
Kyrylo Horbenko, aged 19, tried to join at 16 but was rejected because he was too young. As soon as he was 18, he enlisted, motivated by both nationalism and the programme’s appealing incentives. He trains now with the country’s top 25th Airborne Brigade.
With the majority of men between 18 and 60 already serving, in hiding, or having fled to escape conscription, Ukraine is working hard to keep the troops coming. The government’s answer a flashy, TikTok-style recruitment campaign targeting Gen Z is to sell the lifestyle benefits of serving in the military instead of long-term duty.
But recruitment is still slow. Barely 500 youths have enlisted so far, slowed by red tape, opposition from families, and reluctance to serve on front lines. Some veterans have complained about the uneven treatment, calling the new recruits “the millionaires.”
Experts say the strategy may not be sustainable, suggesting reforms like longer mandatory service and improved military education. But for Ukraine’s youth, the choice between comfort and country grows more complex. As 19-year-old recruit Oleksandr Bahach said, “The bitter truth is that we’re losing this war.”
