The Verkhovna Rada approved in the first reading the draft law №13229, which allows men over the age of 60 to voluntarily sign a military contract.
The document provides the possibility of service for one year, subject to the consent of the commander and the General Staff. The contract will include a probationary period of two months and the right of early termination.
The Ministry of Defence opposed the initiative, suggesting limiting the participation of elderly men to non-combat positions that require professional experience. The State Border Guard Service also expressed concerns that such an approach may create corruption risks, as the decision to accept service will remain with the commanders. Furthermore, there are doubts about the physical ability of elderly men to meet the contract’s conditions.