Since September, new rules on leave for servicemen have come into force in Ukraine. Now every serviceman must be granted 15 consecutive days of annual leave, explained lawyer Daria Tarasenko.
Source: “Espreso”
✅ What has changed regarding military leave
- Previously, granting annual leave depended on the commander’s decision.
- Now, 15 consecutive days must be granted by default, even if the serviceman does not request it.
- The rest of the 30-day limit is provided in agreement with the command.
- A serviceman cannot demand specific dates — they are set by the command, but no more than 30% of the personnel may go on leave at the same time.
- There is a risk that in practice soldiers may be forced to write waivers of this leave, but legally this is unlawful.
- Additionally, combatants may receive another 14 days of leave, but only with the commander’s permission.
🗓 Types of leave available to servicemen
- annual basic leave;
- due to childbirth;
- for destroying enemy equipment;
- for health reasons or rehabilitation after injury;
- for women — due to pregnancy and childbirth;
- after returning from captivity;
- for family circumstances or other valid reasons.
🎖 What is basic military training
Starting September 1, basic general military training (BGMT) and basic military service (BMS) began:
- mandatory for men aged 18–25, fit for service;
- lasts 90 days at military training centers;
- workplace and salary are retained;
- upon completion, a military specialty is granted;
- a deferment can be obtained once, but BGMT must be completed before reaching mobilization age.
🪖 Who may be called up in October
Summons may be issued to men aged 18–60 who:
- are medically fit;
- do not have the right to deferment;
- are not exempt or reserved.
High demand is for specialists:
- assault troops, artillerymen, drivers, drone operators, IT specialists, communications experts.
👉 The maximum mobilization age is 60, but those older may voluntarily sign a contract.