Ukraine’s Army+ App Now Allows Soldiers Who Went AWOL to Return to Service

Returning to Service After Going AWOL: New Option via the Army+ App

According to Федоров: A new procedure enables Ukrainian military personnel who left their units without authorization (AWOL) to come back through the Army+ mobile application. This mechanism lets soldiers choose a new unit and is available until September 20, 2026, for members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) and the State Special Transport Service (SSTS). A key condition is that the AWOL incident must have been recorded no later than June 12, 2026.

The return program is accessible via the Army+ app. For personnel of the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU), the process will be activated in the coming days. Once a soldier’s status is updated to 'On the Way,' they have five days to report to their new duty station. For further assistance, the Ministry of Defense operates a hotline at 0 800 605 100, available daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Detailed instructions and updates are also posted on the dedicated website szch.army.gov.ua.

Step-by-Step Guide for Returning Soldiers

To take advantage of the return program, service members must follow a specific sequence. First, they should check their status in the Army ID section of the app, where a notice reading 'Absence from Service Recorded' will appear. Next, they need to navigate to the 'Services' section, select 'Reports,' and then choose 'Return to Service After AWOL.'

• Pick a new military unit from the list within their branch;
• Specify their preferred service direction and relevant experience;
• Sign the report online.

After the report is reviewed by representatives of the chosen unit, they will contact the soldier to finalize details. The final step is receiving the 'On the Way' status in the app, which confirms that the return has been approved.

This initiative reflects the Ukrainian military leadership’s commitment to offering a structured path back for those who have evaded service. By streamlining bureaucratic hurdles through the Army+ app, the program aims to boost personnel numbers in the AFU and NGU while making it easier for soldiers to resume their duties. The Army+ app is emerging as a key tool in modern military management, cutting red tape and improving the efficiency of reintegrating troops.