The process of demobilizing military personnel in Ukraine is proving to be complex, primarily due to the slow pace of new enlistments into the Armed Forces. This was highlighted by Andriy Hnatov, the Chief of the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, in a statement reported by RBC-Ukraine and LIGA.net.
Hnatov emphasized that the issue of releasing soldiers from service remains particularly challenging. The government is currently exploring various solutions, especially for those who have been engaged in combat since the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion or have extensive service records.
However, a mass release of military personnel is not feasible at this time, as the country’s mobilization rates are insufficient. Hnatov stated, “It is not appropriate to discuss demobilization in detail at this moment to avoid misleading individuals and creating false expectations.”
He also pointed out the interconnected nature of mobilization and demobilization processes. “As mobilization rates improve, more opportunities will arise for releasing those categories of military personnel who are already eligible for discharge,” he concluded.
In related developments, Oleksandr Pivnenko, the Commander of the National Guard, previously indicated that soldiers would not return home quickly after the war concludes, as the military will require time for adaptation. He estimated that this stabilization period could last approximately a year.
Additionally, Ukraine is preparing a reform of its mobilization system, which aims to increase base and combat salaries, as well as introduce flexible contracts with defined service terms. The government has also updated its reservist rules, raising the average salary requirements for critical industries and closing loopholes regarding dual employment.
The Ukrainian military faces significant challenges in demobilizing personnel due to slow enlistment rates. Ongoing reforms aim to enhance recruitment and retention in the armed forces.
Source: RBC-Ukraine