Injuries sustained by military personnel while in captivity are considered combat-related, - Shmyhal

Injuries sustained by military personnel while in captivity are considered combat-related, - Shmyhal

Injuries, traumas, concussions, and illnesses sustained by Ukrainian military personnel in captivity will be considered combat-related.

This was reported by Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal.

"Military personnel who have been in captivity will receive more rights and social protection. I have signed an order that eliminates a gap in legislation concerning military personnel who were held captive by the aggressor state. Until now, injuries or illnesses sustained in captivity were not recognized as related to the defense of the Homeland. As a result, our defenders could not obtain the status of combatant or the status of a person with a disability due to war," Shmyhal noted.

The situation has now been rectified, the minister stated.

"This decision ensures that military personnel receive proper social protection, the right to all stipulated benefits and compensations, free treatment, and rehabilitation. The state will protect each of our soldiers not only on the battlefield but also after they return home," the head of the Ministry of Defence emphasized.