Ukraine offers cash incentives to lure young recruits amid troop shortages

As the war with Russia drags on, Ukraine faces a critical shortage of soldiers. The government has introduced a controversial incentive programme, offering substantial cash bonuses to young men who enlist. Recruits aged 18-24 can receive up to $50,000 for signing up and completing a year of service in the infantry. While this has caused some tension with older soldiers, military officials say the young volunteers are quick learners and highly motivated. The programme highlights Ukraine's desperate need for frontline troops, as well as the economic realities driving some to enlist. However, it also raises ethical questions about sending teenagers into the most dangerous combat roles. Al Jazeera's Assed Baig reports from north-central Ukraine. Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe Follow us on X: https://twitter.com/AJEnglish Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/ Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/ Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.io/AJEMobile #Ukraine #UkraineWar #RussiaUkraineWar #UkraineMilitary #UkraineMilitaryDrafting #UkraineMobilisation #UkraineConscription #UkraineArmy #AlJazeeraEnglish