Ukraine allows voluntary military service for citizens over 60

Ukrainian citizens over the age of 60 can now voluntarily sign one-year contracts to serve in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, with a minimum service period of six months in their chosen role, the Ministry of Defence announced.

The ministry emphasised that participation is entirely voluntary and limited to individuals deemed medically fit for service by a military medical commission, Caliber.Az reports.

“Men aged 60 and above are not subject to mobilisation,” the statement clarified.

Ukraine has repeatedly reformed its military‑service laws as it continues fighting Russia’s full‑scale invasion, shifting from reliance on conscription to expanding voluntary contract service and reforms aimed at strengthening combat readiness and integration with Western defence structures. 

The Ukrainian government has been implementing targeted programmes to attract volunteers and professional contract soldiers, including specialised projects for younger recruits (e.g., “Contract 18‑24”) and coordinated efforts to enhance recruitment of foreigners and stateless persons into the defence forces. 

While martial law and general mobilisation remain in effect, official policy has underscored that older citizens joining the military contract is voluntary and based on medical fitness.

By Jeyhun Aghazada