On July 29, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a law that permits Ukrainian citizens aged 60 and above to voluntarily enlist in the armed forces under contract while martial law is in effect. This law expands Ukraine’s recruitment pool amid ongoing manpower shortages caused by the war with Russia.
Under the new legislation:
- Volunteers over 60 must pass a medical examination and receive approval from their unit commander to sign a one-year military service contract.
- There is no upper age limit specified for service under this law.
- New recruits undergo a two-month probation period, after which their suitability for service is assessed; contracts may be terminated early if they are found unfit.
- All contracts are void after martial law concludes.
- The initiative targets mainly non-combat, technical, logistical, and specialist roles where experienced personnel are especially needed.
This measure enables experienced older citizens willing to serve to contribute to Ukraine’s defense, addressing acute recruitment challenges as the conflict continues. The law complements earlier efforts such as lowering the draft age from 27 to 25 and recruiting younger volunteers on short-term contracts with incentives.
The legislation was passed by Ukraine’s parliament on July 16, 2025, and formalized with President Zelenskyy's signature on July 29, 2025.
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