Extension of Martial Law and Mobilization
Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, has extended the nation's martial law and general mobilization until May 4, 2026. This decision underscores the ongoing need for national defense. According to the new provisions, mobilization efforts in February will focus on three specific categories of men aged 18 to 60 who meet the established criteria.
Those subject to call-up are primarily individuals registered for military service who do not have a deferment, a reserved occupation status, or a medical exemption. The first priority group consists of men aged 25 to 60, including those without prior military service, provided they pass a medical commission. The second category includes men aged 18 to 60 who have previous military experience. The third group comprises citizens who were previously removed from military registers or deemed partially fit, but who may now be called up if a repeat military medical commission confirms their fitness for service.
Terms of Service and Conscription
Conscripts aged 18 to 25 may only serve on a voluntary basis by signing a contract for a period of 18 to 24 months. Citizens over the age of 60 may join the armed forces solely at their own discretion by signing a special "60+" contract for a one-year term. These new mobilization rules are designed to bolster the country's defense capabilities for the duration of the extended martial law.
The extension of martial law and general mobilization highlights the protracted nature of the military conflict in Ukraine and the continuing necessity to sustain the state's defensive strength. The introduction of new mobilization categories and clarified service terms reflects an adaptation of the country's military strategy to current challenges and aims to facilitate the recruitment of necessary personnel to ensure security and stability. This move also reinforces the critical role of citizen participation in national defense during wartime.