Ukraine’s Defense Ministry Drafts New Mobilization Rules Targeting 2 Million Wanted Citizens.

Overhaul of Ukraine’s Mobilization Process

According to Novyny.live: Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense is preparing significant changes to the mobilization process, specifically aimed at military-liable individuals currently listed as wanted. Deputy Defense Minister Mstyslav Banik announced that these reforms will affect approximately 2 million people and will be formally presented by Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The comprehensive overhaul is scheduled for completion by 2027. This initiative comes as Ukraine continues to adapt its military recruitment strategies amid the ongoing war with Russia.

Banik emphasized that offering new prospects for military service could shift public attitudes toward mobilization.

“Right now, a person sees that joining through mobilization means entering and never leaving—serving in infantry combat missions with no clear end in sight. This reform is a direct response to those people, giving them new opportunities and clearer terms for military service,”

The deputy minister also voiced concerns about the current forced mobilization model.

“Whether there will be raids or other enforcement measures—I cannot say for sure. But I can tell you that the current form of forced mobilization is having a very negative impact on society,”

New Contract Structure and Foreign Recruitment

As part of the reforms, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi has announced three types of contracts that will be available to service members. During discussions on these innovations, Banik stressed the importance of involving all stakeholders in debates over contract lengths, deferment periods, and salary levels for soldiers of different ranks.

Additionally, Fedorov indicated that Ukraine aims to recruit foreigners into its Armed Forces, adding another element to the country’s defense strengthening strategy. These mobilization changes and new contract options are expected to help attract more recruits and improve service conditions.

The planned mobilization reforms—including new contract types and foreign recruitment—could substantially impact the formation of a personnel reserve and enhance service conditions for military personnel. By aiming to improve public perception of mobilization, the reform may reduce social tensions and increase the population’s readiness to serve in the army. It is crucial that the implementation process takes into account the views and needs of all participants to ensure the effectiveness of these new measures.