Volodymyr Zelenskyy authorized military service under contract for citizens aged 60+
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed Bill 13229 amending the Law of Ukraine «On Military Duty and Military Service» regarding the service of individuals who have reached the maximum age for military service.
What the law provides
The document grants the right to individuals who have reached 60 years of age to voluntarily sign a contract for service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine during the period of martial law. Specifically, it can be signed by both men and women, provided they are deemed fit for service based on the results of a military medical commission (VMC).
The law provides for a probationary period of two months: during this time, the candidate's suitability for military service is tested. If the individual does not meet the criteria, the contract is terminated early. If they do meet the criteria, the contract is signed for a period of one year with the possibility of renewal or extension.
In the military, citizens over 60 years old can be appointed to both enlisted and non-commissioned officer positions, as well as to officer positions — provided they have served in the military after January 1, 2015.
In the case of appointment to an officer position, approval from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine or an authorized military management body is required.
Service under contract, according to this law, is only possible during the period of martial law (recently, the duration of the legal regimes of martial law and general mobilization in Ukraine was extended by another 90 days — until November 5, 2025). After its final termination, such military contracts are automatically terminated.
