The Ukrainian government has allowed men aged 18 to 22 to leave the country. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the decision, saying that if young men wish, they can return freely without any obstacles.
Since the start of Russia’s invasion, men aged 18 to 60 had been banned from crossing the border. Now, this restriction has been lifted for those under 22. As a result, many young men are trying to move to European countries.
Experts say the decision was made amid a shrinking population and a shortage of military forces. Due to the war and a low birth rate, Ukraine’s population has reportedly decreased by 10 million people.
However, young men’s views differ: some want to leave for safety and a better future, while others see staying and defending their homeland as their duty.
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