Russian draft age to be raised under new bill.

Russia has introduced a bill that would raise the age of men eligible for military conscription to 21-30, up from the current range of 18-27, with a two-year transition period. Critics say the move is an attempt to offset Russia's losses in Ukraine. The UK's Defense Ministry predicts the bill will pass and go into effect in January, potentially freeing up professional soldiers to fight in the war. Russian President Vladimir Putin supported the defense minister's proposal last year to increase the country's military forces. Since Russia began its invasion in February 2022, the Ukrainian Armed Forces claim to have "liquidated" at least 164,200 Russian soldiers.