Martial law in Ukraine has been extended until May 4, 2026, which means maintaining general mobilization of military-liable men aged 18 to 60. At the same time, the same conscription rules apply to citizens over 50, but with certain practical nuances.
According to the legislation, all military conscripts who do not have a deferment or reservation are subject to mobilization. Age in itself is not a reason for exemption from service. Therefore, men aged 50+, 55+ and even 59 years old can be drafted into the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on general terms.
The key role in the issue of mobilization is not played by years, but by individual factors. First of all, the state of health, which is determined by the military medical commission, the presence of a military or civilian specialty that may be useful to the army, as well as the presence of a deferment or armor, is taken into account.
If a person is found fit for service and has the necessary skills, he or she can be mobilized regardless of age within the range established by law. At the same time, practice shows that older conscripts are more often involved not in front-line combat units, but in rear units, logistics, support, or administrative work, where experience and professional competencies are valued.
However, there is no universal approach. The decision on the place of service is made individually, depending on the needs of the army and the specific situation.
Men who have a legal deferment or reservation, including employees of critical enterprises and institutions, are not subject to mobilization. Complete exemption from service is also possible in the case of unfitness due to health, confirmed by the conclusion of a military medical commission.
In parallel, the Verkhovna Rada is working on amendments to the legislation in the field of military service. In particular, draft law No. 15086 has been registered, which prohibits sending servicemen to a combat zone immediately after completing basic training.
Thus, mobilization in Ukraine covers all age categories up to 60 years old, and the same legal norms apply to men over 50, but taking into account their health status and professional experience.
