Demobilization in Ukraine remains an urgent issue that raises many questions among servicemen and their families. Given the martial law, there is no general demobilization in Ukraine, but there are specific cases where the military can be dismissed. We tell more about who is eligible for demobilization and what are the prospects of this process.
Demobilization is the process of dismissing servicemen from service after the end of a military campaign, expiration of the contract or on the basis of other legal reasons during the martial law or special period. It is the opposite of mobilizing the procedure when the military returns to civilian life.
However, in Ukraine, due to martial law, demobilization is not currently generally conducted. Therefore, servicemen can only be released on specific grounds.
Despite the fact that demobilization in Ukraine is not carried out in 2025, there are clear conditions under which you can be dismissed. According to Article 26 of the Law of Ukraine “On Military Duty and Military Service”, the military can be demobilized on the following grounds:
- Age: Servicemen who are 60 years old (in some cases 65 years) can be dismissed.
- Health: If the military is unable to perform their duties because of health, it is necessary to undergo a medical examination and to receive a conclusion from the Military Medical Commission.
- Penalty for a court sentence: if the military is convicted or deprived of the rank of court.
- Release from captivity: the military who were released from captivity can be released from service.
- Family Circumstances: This may include situations where a serviceman has minor children, relatives with disabilities, or in the event of relatives during hostilities. For women, it is also possible to demobilize due to pregnancy.
Demobilization in Ukraine is currently not being carried out, but the demobilization bill has already been prepared. However, the process of finding solutions is still underway who can replace those who leave the service.
The government also considers an alternative to demobilization in the form of providing long -term paid vacations during martial law. This proposal is discussed with the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence, and it is expected that legislative initiatives may be presented in March 2025.
In general, although the issue of demobilization in Ukraine is currently open and depends on many factors, servicemen who meet certain conditions can get the opportunity to be dismissed. Therefore, it is important to know the legitimate grounds for demobilization and monitor changes in the legislation to understand your rights.
