Ukraine prepares for 15th extension of martial law

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has submitted draft laws to the Verkhovna Rada (parliament) to extend martial law and mobilization in Ukraine for another 90 days starting from May 9.

The relevant documents have been posted on the parliament’s website, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

Ukrainian authorities have prohibited the holding of elections during martial law. The Rada is expected to consider these draft laws soon; its speaker, Ruslan Stefanchuk, has previously stated that they will be approved.

As MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak noted on his Telegram channel, martial law and mobilization will be extended until August 6. This will mark the 15th vote on extending these measures.

In recent weeks, Ukrainian media have repeatedly speculated that amid ongoing negotiations to resolve the conflict involving the United States, martial law and general mobilization might not be extended. Possible dates for presidential and parliamentary elections were even mentioned, including as early as this summer.

Mobilization in Ukraine encompasses both general and partial conscription, targeting medically fit reservists and individuals without deferments. Recent legislative changes have lowered the draft age from 27 to 25 and mandated re-examinations for those previously deemed unfit for service. ​

To enforce these measures, authorities have intensified recruitment efforts, including conducting document checks in public venues such as nightclubs and shopping centers. These actions have sparked public concern over fairness and legality.

By Khagan Isayev