President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 29, signed into law a measure allowing Ukrainian men over the age of 60 to voluntarily enlist for military service under one-year contracts—A stark indication of the escalating manpower strain, growing need to replenish frontline ranks depleted by sustained combat, high attrition, and the prolonged nature of war, amid Russia’s ongoing invasion. The law permits those above 60, provided they pass medical screenings and receive approval from a unit commander, to serve primarily in non-combat roles as Ukraine contends with chronic recruitment shortfalls.
Kyiv’s armed forces have been under mounting pressure: mobilization targets remain unmet despite multiple prior legal reforms, including a controversial reduction of the military-age threshold from 27 to 25 in April 2024, which already widened eligibility substantially. Ukraine’s ongoing “Contract 18–24” recruitment drive targeting younger volunteers has yielded minimal results, intensifying the need to expand the potential pool.
This latest measure comes as Kyiv also extended martial law and general mobilization until November 5, 2025, reinforcing travel restrictions on men aged 18 to 60 and strengthening internal conscription enforcement. Officials say many older Ukrainians have expressed willingness to remain in uniform, prompting legal revisions to formally welcome their participation if physically fit.
Defense authorities must still issue implementing bylaws within three months, Clarifying approval procedures and assurances against potential abuses remain pending. The legislation requires unit commanders and military medical commissions to vet candidates thoroughly.
