Ukraine’s military ombudsman, Oleksandra Reshetilova, has announced potential sanctions for citizens evading military service during an ongoing mobilization effort. Her statements come as discussions about a legislative package aimed at ensuring fair military service are underway.
Reshetilova emphasized that the parliament must first approve the proposed legislative measures that will impose restrictions on individuals who attempt to avoid military duties. “These sanctions are clearly defined and have already been drafted. They have yet to be submitted to parliament,” she stated.
The proposed limitations may include restrictions on accessing administrative services, using driver’s licenses, and freezing bank accounts, among others. Reshetilova underlined that these actions aim to facilitate more effective investigations into draft evaders while also limiting their freedom of movement and access to certain state-provided services.
She added that the implementation of these measures would be fair to those servicemen who have been diligently serving and are due for replacement. “This set of measures should run parallel to a well-thought-out expansion of military demobilization,” Reshetilova concluded.
Background
- Following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces on February 24, 2022, President Volodymyr Zelensky declared martial law and general mobilization.
- Martial law includes restrictions on the ability of men eligible for conscription to leave the country, with few exceptions. In response to petitions to lift the travel ban, the president stated that it would only be lifted once martial law ends.
- On July 14, 2026, the Ukrainian Parliament extended martial law and mobilization for an additional three months, from August 2 to October 31.
