The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a new procedure for registering convicts for military service. This decision includes the requirement for prisoners to undergo medical evaluations and psychological assessments as part of the process. The new guidelines, which also apply to individuals released on parole, were confirmed by the government’s representative in the Ukrainian Parliament, Taras Melnychuk, through a statement on Telegram.
Under this procedure, individuals released from prison under parole will be included in the military register and required to undergo a military medical commission (VLC), as well as a professional psychological selection. A list of territorial centres for recruitment and social support (TCC) has been established to facilitate the military registration of these individuals.
Furthermore, the procedure outlines how individuals released early from imprisonment will be escorted by the National Guard to the recruitment centres and military units. Once there, they will undergo training, sign contracts, and enter military service. This move is part of the Ukrainian government’s efforts to bolster the ranks of the Armed Forces, while also offering a path for released prisoners to reintegrate into society through military service.
The new law, which was approved in the second reading by the Verkhovna Rada, also stipulates that those convicted of corruption or serious crimes will not be eligible for early release through military service.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| January 14, 2025 | The Cabinet of Ministers approved new procedures for military registration |
| Release from prison with early parole | Released prisoners will undergo medical and psychological evaluations |
| Recruitment procedure | Released individuals will be escorted to TCCs and military units for service |
| Exclusion of serious offenders | Convicts of corruption and severe crimes will not be eligible for release |
This move comes after the Verkhovna Rada passed a bill allowing prisoners to be released early if they choose to serve in the military. However, it should be noted that this law excludes those convicted of major crimes like corruption. The new measures aim to improve the effectiveness of the Ukrainian Armed Forces while also addressing the rehabilitation of offenders.
The government’s decision to offer a path to military service for released prisoners could serve as a significant boost for the Ukrainian military, which continues to face challenges in its ongoing conflict.
