Ukraine Announces Military Reform: Gradual Demobilization for Veteran Soldiers Starting in Autumn

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense Launches Military Service Reform Plan

The Ukrainian government, under the initiative of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, has begun implementing the first phase of a "systemic transformation" in the defense forces. According to СУСПІЛЬНЕ НОВИНИ, which is associated with a favorable position toward the Ukrainian government, the new measures include financial incentives for soldiers, simplification of procedures for returning from unauthorized absence (AWOL), and recruitment of legionnaires through private recruiters.

New Demobilization Mechanism for Veteran Soldiers

Starting in late autumn 2026, a gradual demobilization process will begin for soldiers who have been serving since 2022 or earlier. As reported by Цензор.НЕТ, Minister Fedorov stated that the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will determine the order of discharge based on two key criteria: total duration of service since 2014 and the number of actual "combat days."

Technological Tools and Transparency

The Ministry of Defense plans to launch a digital "personal calculator," which will allow every soldier to independently calculate their expected discharge date. АрміяINFORM emphasized that a presidential decree regarding the discharge of soldiers will supersede individual contracts signed. Minister Fedorov clarified: "If you have been fighting since 2022... and sign a 24-month contract – when your turn comes to be discharged according to the decree, you will be discharged regardless of the contract signing" according to the Minister's statement on ArmyInform.

Despite the significant changes, СУСПІЛЬНЕ НОВИНИ notes that at this stage, the reform does not include changes to the structure of the Territorial Recruitment Centers (TCC). The changes were approved as temporary government decrees for a period of two years.