The question of the possibility of issuing summonses to Ukrainians abroad remains relevant in the fall of 2025. Lawyer Vladislav Yurchak answered this question, writes Oboz.
Can diplomatic missions of Ukraine issue summonses abroad?
The lawyer explained that diplomatic missions of Ukraine indeed have certain obligations related to the military registration of citizens, however, they do not have the right to issue summonses directly. According to him, the government has approved an updated procedure for military registration of conscripts, reservists, and military service members, which defines new functions for consulates and embassies.
Key changes in the work of diplomatic institutions
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informing Ukrainians of conscription age about upcoming drafts and mobilization measures;
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transmitting information to military authorities about individuals who have become or have been removed from consular registration;
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facilitating the return of military service members to Ukraine during mobilization.
However, as Yurchak emphasized, no diplomatic institution is authorized to issue summonses to citizens who are abroad. Their activities are limited to consular registration and communication with citizens, and issuing summonses remains possible only on the territory of Ukraine.
«Even after the update of the military registration procedure, diplomatic institutions did not receive the authority for direct issuance of summonses. Their function is solely accounting and informational,» explained the expert.
According to the lawyer, the government is gradually streamlining the military registration system, but for Ukrainians who temporarily or permanently reside abroad, the norms of mobilization legislation do not change. Diplomats can transmit information to the relevant authorities in Ukraine, but do not act as representatives of territorial recruitment centers.
Earlier we wrote that Ukrainian military service members who went abroad with a deferment risk facing serious consequences if they do not manage to return in time.