Ukraine's Parliament Tightens Mobilization Laws, Targeting Draft Evasion

Legislative Reforms on Mobilization

According to Главком: The Ukrainian parliament is moving to strengthen mobilization laws and measures to combat draft evasion and cases of soldiers leaving their units without authorization. Vadym Ivchenko, a member of the Batkivshchyna parliamentary faction, has emphasized the critical need to improve the military's internal communication systems. As of March 2026, the primary focus remains on tackling draft dodging and unauthorized absences from military units. These legislative efforts come as Ukraine continues to defend itself against a full-scale invasion, requiring a sustained and effective mobilization system.

Ukrainian courts are now frequently imposing fines on staff at Territorial Recruitment Centers (TRCs) for negligence in their duties during the special wartime period. These fines, ranging from 17,000 to 34,000 hryvnias, are levied for failures to comply with mandatory video recording requirements of their work. Since July 17, 2024, Ukrainian law has required military TRCs to notify eligible citizens using photo and video documentation, a procedure approved by then-Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.

New Mandates for Recruitment Centers

In August 2025, Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal issued an urgent directive mandating that, starting September 1, 2025, all TRC field operations must be conducted using video recording equipment, specifically body cameras. Vadym Ivchenko noted the importance of this measure, stating, 'This is a moral issue. When a person is afraid, they simply run away from the training center. Therefore, we need a proper communication system in the army so that people understand they won't be sent to the front line without completing 50 days in a training center.'

The deputy also highlighted the severe consequences for draft evasion:

"Their bank accounts are blocked, they are denied loans, and so on. If those who leave their units without permission are 'grouped' with those dodging alimony payments-this is also a reason not to go AWOL, because you face obligations, criminal liability, and certain restrictions." - Vadym Ivchenko

Ivchenko also expressed hope, saying, 'I know there are organized groups of people, private military companies, who have worked in many missions and regions and are ready to join and reinforce our assault operations. If 10,000 professional people come, believe me, it will definitely help.' Thus, strengthening legislation and enforcing its norms are seen as vital steps for ensuring the stability and effectiveness of Ukraine's military structures.

The mobilization law changes and stricter conscription oversight reflect a growing need to enhance the efficiency of Ukraine's military amid ongoing security challenges. The implementation of new norms, particularly regarding video recording, aims to improve transparency and accountability within the Territorial Recruitment Centers. Simultaneously, according to the deputy, it is crucial not only to increase control but also to create conditions that make servicemen feel supported and protected, which would help reduce instances of evasion and unauthorized departure from units.