The new mobilisation law, which will come into force in Ukraine as early as May 2024, includes changes for foreign volunteers. Find out exactly what they are about

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On 18 May, a new law on mobilisation in Ukraine will come into force. The changes will affect not only Ukrainians but also foreign volunteers who have signed a contract with the Armed Forces. Here's what innovations to expect.

Thus, Article 26 of the Law on Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine on Certain Issues of Military Service, Mobilisation and Military Registration (Reg. No. 10449) states that foreign and stateless military personnel will be able to terminate their contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine at their own request no earlier than six months into their military service.

At the same time, the days of training spent under the contract are also counted towards these 6 months. However, all contracts signed prior to this, including old contracts, are still subject to termination without minimum service requirements.

As you know, the Ukrainian army has an International Legion, which mostly consists of citizens of other countries or stateless persons who have expressed a desire to help the Ukrainian Armed Forces in repelling russian aggression. 

Under what conditions can foreigners join the Ukrainian Armed Forces?

According to the law, foreigners and stateless persons may be recruited for military service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine under a contract for the positions of private, sergeant and sergeant major.

Foreigners and stateless persons who have not been previously convicted and who are legally residing in Ukraine and meet the following requirements for military service are eligible for military service under the contract

- suitable by age (18-60 years); 

- fit for military service for health reasons;

- have passed the professional and psychological selection;

- have a sufficient level of physical fitness.

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To enlist for military service, foreigners and stateless persons apply to the military commissariat at their place of residence. Foreigners can also use the services of recruitment centres.

A probationary period of 2 months is established for foreigners and stateless persons.

The contract can be signed:

- for 3 years (for privates);

- from 3 to 5 years (for non-commissioned officers).

The contract may be terminated at the request of the foreigner or extended after its expiry. 

The financial support for foreigners in the Armed Forces of Ukraine is determined at the level established for military personnel - citizens of Ukraine. In addition, foreign citizens and stateless persons are entitled to a one-time financial assistance in the event of death (death) of a serviceman (the payment is received by family members or parents), disability or temporary disability (the payment is received by the serviceman). For more information on the conditions of military service in Ukraine for foreigners, please click here.

We remind you! foreign citizens or stateless persons can now join the National Guard of Ukraine. Read our article to find out what the conditions of service are and what is required to join.

Photo: SIPA/SCANPIX