Zelenskyy Unveils Army Overhaul: Infantry Could Earn Up to 400,000 Hryvnias

Ukraine's Military Reform Initiative

According to Главком: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced a sweeping reform of the nation's armed forces, set to launch in June 2026. Key directions were already approved in April, with finer details to be finalized in May. The first tangible outcomes are anticipated in the area of military financial compensation.

Core Pillars of the Reform

The reform includes significant pay raises for service members:

• Rear-echelon personnel will see a minimum monthly salary of at least 30,000 hryvnias.
• Combat troops will receive substantially higher sums.
• Ukrainian commanders, combat sergeants, and officers are promised a 'dignified and noticeably increased' level of pay.
• Special contracts for infantry soldiers will offer between 250,000 and 400,000 hryvnias, depending on mission performance.

Beyond financial changes, the plan includes a phased demobilization of previously conscripted troops, starting this year. The president has instructed military leadership and Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov to consult with frontline commanders on the reforms.

“I have tasked strengthening the contract system within the Defense Forces so that, by expanding the contract component, we can guarantee defined terms of service,” Zelenskyy stated.

Zelenskyy expects a report on concrete implementation steps next week.

“Next week, I expect a report on specific measures for carrying out the reform, particularly regarding the schedule for increased payments starting in June and the system of updated contracts,” the president emphasized.

It is worth noting that martial law and general mobilization in Ukraine were extended for 90 days starting May 4, 2026, which is also part of the broader military restructuring strategy. This context underscores the urgency behind these changes as Ukraine continues to defend itself amid ongoing conflict.

The military reform, beginning in June 2026, aims to boost financial support for troops and refine the contract system. These steps are critical for improving service conditions and attracting new personnel to the Armed Forces, especially given the prolonged state of war. The success of these measures will likely have a major impact on Ukraine's long-term defense capabilities.

As Ukraine prepares for significant military reforms, the recent extension of martial law and mobilization highlights the urgency of these changes. Effective from May 4, 2026, this decision is part of a broader strategy to enhance the armed forces and ensure a more robust defense system amid ongoing challenges.