Grounds for Military Discharge During Martial Law: Who Can Leave Service.

Understanding Discharge Rights for Service Members

According to TSN.ua: Even under martial law, Ukrainian military personnel retain the right to leave service upon reaching the maximum age limit or under other legally defined conditions. These discharge procedures are governed by national law and remain in effect during the current period of general mobilization, which has been extended until May 4, 2026.

The maximum service age for men is 60. Beyond age, discharge is permitted for health reasons based on a military medical board's decision. Service members may also be dismissed following a guilty verdict for military-related crimes. Family circumstances allow for discharge if the individual has three or more children or must care for a person with a disability.

Steps to Initiate Discharge

To start the process, a service member must submit a formal report. The unit commander is required to calculate the length of service no later than four months before the member reaches the age limit. Currently, Ukraine is under martial law and general mobilization, both extended until May 4, 2026. All eligible men aged 25 to 60 are subject to conscription.

Legal grounds for military discharge include:

• age,
• medical condition,
• a guilty verdict,
• family circumstances.

The discharge procedure involves submitting a report, attending an interview, calculating years of service, and obtaining a military medical board evaluation. The commander's responsibilities include calculating service length, facilitating the medical board, forwarding documents to higher command, and issuing the discharge order.

This information is crucial for service members, as understanding discharge rights under martial law and mobilization helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures legal compliance. Given the extended mobilization period, these provisions will remain relevant for many soldiers planning their future careers or transition back to civilian life.