“During martial law, for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, on the basis of a letter (written consent) from the commander of a military unit, persons over the age of 60 who have been recognized by military medical commissions as fit for military service for health reasons may be accepted for military service under a contract,” the document says.
According to the text of the decree, in order to be accepted into military service, it is necessary to submit appropriate appeals (applications) and letters (written consents) from the commanders of military units to the recruitment and social support centers at the place of residence or stay.
“For persons who are accepted for military service under a contract as an officer, a letter (written consent) from the commander of a military unit to conclude a contract is provided only after the candidate has been approved in the prescribed manner by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine,” the document says.
Context
After the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops on the morning of February 24, 2022, Zelensky declared martial law and general mobilization. The last time extended until May 4, 2026.
Martial law provides, in particular, a ban on the travel abroad of men aged 23–60 years who are subject to conscription during mobilization, except for special exceptions.
For citizens, who have not reached the lower limit of the mobilization age established in Ukraine (25 years), the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine project “Contract 18–24” is already in effect. It provides the opportunity to voluntarily perform military service from the age of 18 and provides many benefits and high monetary support.
The Rada also allowed people after 60 years of age to join the army under contract to help in non-combat and specialized positions.
