The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has initiated a simplified procedure for military personnel to voluntarily return from unauthorized absence, known as СЗЧ. Over the recent weekend, following the launch of this mechanism, 80 applications were submitted, with 22 already approved, according to Deputy Minister of Defense Mykola Banik.
Banik noted that the response has been encouraging, particularly given the lack of prior emphasis on the campaign to facilitate these returns. He attributed the positive outcome to the awareness generated by recent communications from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The Ministry anticipates that tens of thousands of individuals who have left their units without authorization may take advantage of this new process. As previously reported, military personnel who left their units as of June 12 can return by September 20 under this new framework.
The most straightforward method for returning is through the mobile application “Army+”, which allows users to:
- Select a new military unit from a provided list;
- Indicate their preferred service direction and experience;
- Receive support until they are assigned to the new unit.
Once an application is approved in “Army+”, the status “On the Way” is activated, confirming the military personnel’s voluntary return and providing a five-day window to arrive at the new unit.
Applications can also be submitted directly to the chosen military unit or through recruitment centers associated with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Currently, this service is available to personnel of the Armed Forces and the State Transport Service, with plans to extend it to the National Guard shortly.
Minister of Defense’s Remarks on the Return Process
Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov emphasized that the expedited return of military personnel to effective defense units is a crucial aspect of ongoing reforms. He reminded potential returnees that the program is available until September 20 and outlined the step-by-step procedure for participation.
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The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has launched a new process allowing military personnel to return from unauthorized absence, with early indications showing a positive response. The initiative is expected to facilitate the return of tens of thousands of individuals by September 20.