Conscription after the age of 60 in Ukraine: can men be forcibly conscripted?

Tamara Vasylchuk
Tamara Vasylchuk Journalist
Conscription after the age of 60 in Ukraine: can men be forcibly conscripted?
Illustrative photo
Reports of the alleged compulsory mobilisation of men over the age of 60 have recently been circulating widely on social media and messaging apps. However, current Ukrainian legislation does not provide for the compulsory conscription of citizens who have reached this age

This is reported by Radio Track

Are men over 60 subject to mobilisation?

In Ukraine, the age limit for military service for most conscripts is 60. Once they reach this age, men cannot be compulsorily mobilised, even if they are registered with the military or hold a military qualification.

Reports that this age limit has allegedly already been raised or is due to be changed in the near future are untrue. There are no relevant legislative decisions to this effect.

When can you join the army after the age of 60?

At the same time, Ukrainians aged over 60 may join the Defence Forces on a voluntary basis. The ‘Contract 60+’ programme is in place for this purpose.

To sign a contract, you must undergo a military medical examination, obtain approval from the military unit, submit documents to the regional recruitment centre and sign a one-year contract. For the first six months, the serviceman undergoes a probationary period. If this is successfully completed, the contract may be extended.

What kind of service do volunteers undertake?

Volunteers aged over 60 are not usually assigned to assault units. Most often, they work in logistics, supply, equipment maintenance, military communications or are involved in training new recruits. People with professional experience who can pass on their knowledge to other service personnel are in greatest demand.

Consequently, reports of compulsory mobilisation of men over the age of 60 are false. They may only serve of their own volition, having signed the relevant contract.

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