A new bill has been registered in the Verkhovna Rada, offering the opportunity for individuals aged 60 and over to enter into contracts with the Ukrainian Defense Forces.

Source: Comment by Roman Kostenko, secretary of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense, and Intelligence, in "Ukrainian Truth", text of bill No. 13229.

Quote from Kostenko: "Since the beginning of the war, many citizens aged 60 and over have expressed a desire to contribute to the defense of Ukraine. They are motivated and possess extensive professional experience. Our bill removes the existing legislative barriers."

The document stipulates that during martial law, with the written consent of the military unit commander, citizens aged 60 and over, who are deemed fit by a military medical commission, may be accepted for service.

These contract soldiers will be able to hold non-combat positions at the rank of private, sergeant, or higher (provided they were discharged from service after January 1, 2015).

The contract duration for servicemen aged 60+ is one year, with the possibility of renewal. Officers in the corresponding age group may sign a contract after mandatory approval of their candidacy by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The contract will include a two-month probation period. If the serviceman does not pass the probation, the contract will be terminated.

Note: The bill has been registered by 37 members of parliament. The document will now be reviewed by the members of the Committee on National Security, Defense, and Intelligence before being voted on in the parliamentary session hall.

Current Ukrainian legislation mandates the mobilization of conscripts aged 25 to 60.

Learn more: New mobilization rules. What the adopted law entails.

Also read: Older individuals find their place. How the Armed Forces of Ukraine have become a 40+ army and whether the decrease in the mobilization age will affect combat readiness.