Ukrainian military personnel who choose not to sign new contracts offered by the Ministry of Defense will continue their service until demobilization. This announcement was made by Deputy Defense Minister Mykola Banik during a briefing on June 15.
Banik stated that individuals can begin signing new contracts immediately. He clarified that those who do not sign will serve until demobilization but will receive the same pay as those who do sign. However, contract soldiers will have the opportunity to return home after ten months, while mobilized soldiers will remain in service until demobilization is officially declared.
Additionally, Banik discussed a simplified process for returning from unauthorized absence. Soldiers can now return without needing to go through reserve battalions, allowing them to choose their next posting. So far, approximately 80 applications have been received, with 22 approvals granted, and some individuals have already rejoined their brigades.
He emphasized that the return process is voluntary, and individuals will not be reassigned to military law enforcement or reserve battalions. Once a request is approved, the soldier has 72 hours to report back to their unit, eliminating previous complications.
Banik also addressed the fairness of contract terms for current and incoming soldiers. He noted that the minimum contract for civilians is 14 months, compared to 10 months for military personnel. Civilians will receive a six-month deferment after their service, plus additional time based on combat experience.
For soldiers who have served since 2022, the deferment at the end of their contract will amount to six months for each year served, potentially leading to significant time off after their service is completed.
Furthermore, Banik mentioned additional options for current contract holders. Those with contracts expiring soon will also be eligible for a six-month deferment upon completion of their service.
The Deputy Minister indicated that the framework for the discharge process is still under development, and the time served will not be calculated uniformly. The criteria and formula for determining who qualifies for discharge will be clarified later in the year.
On June 12, Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced that the government had approved a series of resolutions aimed at initiating the first phase of a significant transformation of military service in Ukraine.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has introduced new policies regarding military contracts, allowing personnel to choose whether to sign new agreements while outlining a simplified return process for those who have left their units. These changes are part of a broader effort to reform military service in the country.