Based on my research, here is my analysis of the claim:
Reasoning:
- Ukraine's general mobilization targets men aged 25 to 60, not 65. According to the UK government's country policy note, as a general rule, mobilization applies to men aged 25 to 60 who are fit for service.
- The law does specify that senior officers can serve up to 65 years old during a special period, but this applies to a specific rank category, not general conscripts.
- In July 2025, Ukraine enacted a law allowing citizens over 60 to voluntarily enlist in the military during martial law with no maximum age limit, provided they pass medical exams and are approved by a unit commander. However, this is voluntary service, not conscription or draft.
- The term "conscript" implies compulsory drafting, whereas the over-60 provision is explicitly for volunteers signing one-year contracts.
- The Le Monde reported in February 2026 that the draft targets men between 25 and 60, and noted the Ukrainian army's average age is 45—significantly older than European standards.
- Reports indicate Ukraine has faced manpower shortages and systemic issues during mobilization, but there is no evidence that 65-year-olds are being compulsorily drafted as regular conscripts.
The claim conflates the maximum service age for senior officers (65) and voluntary enlistment for over-60s with general conscription. While 65-year-olds may serve in the military under specific circumstances (as senior officers or volunteers), they are not being "drafted" as conscripts in the ordinary sense.
Overall validity: 25%