Ukraine plant harsher measures against desertion – with a pathway back into the army.

New Legislative Initiative on Military Service

According to Novyny.live: A new draft law for contract-based military service (SZhCh) has been presented to the Ukrainian Parliament. It proposes amendments to the criminal code and aims to create incentives for former contract soldiers to return to the army. Yehor Cherniev, a member of the 'Servant of the People' party, is promoting the initiative aimed at attracting former soldiers back into service.

On January 14 of this year, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine extended the mobilization period for the 18th time – now until May 4, 2026. Currently, 70% of the Ukrainian army is in rear positions. The new draft law plans to introduce criminal consequences for a third desertion (SZhCh) during the war. Yehor Cherniev emphasized the importance of finding a balance between recovering personnel and avoiding new cases of desertion.

“We need to find the maximum balance: on one hand, to bring people back, on the other hand, to prevent new desertions. Therefore, there will be a kind of probation period. If one returns to service within three months and fulfills their duties diligently in the unit, the criminal responsibility for desertion will be lifted,” Cherniev said.

Cherniev also pointed out that despite 70% of the troops being in rear areas, it is important to identify and solve problem areas in the army. “In the case of a third desertion during the war, there will, however, be criminal responsibility,” he added. The law aims not only to facilitate returns but also to strengthen the morale of the troops. The debate reflects the difficult personnel policy in a prolonged defensive situation.

Current Challenges for the Ukrainian Army

The proposed legislative changes reflect the current challenges faced by the Ukrainian army in the ongoing war. Introducing criminal liability for repeated desertion could be an important tool in combating lack of presence and non-compliance with mobilization requirements.

At the same time, the draft places emphasis on creating favorable conditions for the return of former soldiers. This could positively impact the overall morale and readiness of the troops under the difficult conditions of war.