Zelensky approved a law allowing contract service for persons over 60 years old

Zelensky signs law on military service for Ukrainians over 60 years old

As reported by TUT.AZ with reference to the Verkhovna Rada website, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a law that will allow citizens of the country to perform military service after reaching the age of 60.

The document was approved by parliament on July 16, when 306 deputies voted for it in the second reading. According to MP Iryna Gerashchenko, the new law opens up the possibility of concluding contracts with citizens who have crossed the 60-year threshold. However, she noted a significant gap in the legislative act – the absence of a clear definition of the body authorized to approve candidates for contract service, which potentially creates grounds for abuse. It is expected that the necessary procedures will be outlined in bylaws, the development of which should be completed within three months after the law comes into force.

Under current conditions in Ukraine, men from 25 to 60 years old are subject to conscription. General mobilization has been in effect since February 2022, and in May 2023 there was a significant tightening of its rules – many benefits and deferrals were canceled. Despite the measures taken, Ukrainian authorities continue to face problems with staffing the armed forces and are actively looking for additional sources to replenish personnel.

Against the backdrop of discussions about a possible further reduction in the conscription age (which until April 2024 was 27 years), the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine in February launched a campaign to recruit young men aged 18 to 24 for contract service. Potential contractors are offered an attractive social package, including high monetary allowances, benefits for admission to higher educational institutions, and other preferences. The key condition for receiving these advantages is service in infantry brigades on the front line.