Ukrainian Minister of Defense Aims to Eliminate Mandatory Military Service

The Ukrainian Minister of Defense has announced intentions to eliminate mandatory military service in the country’s legislation, replacing it with contract-based service.

“It is my personal goal to abolish conscription,” quotes Minister Andriy Zagorodnyuk.

However, the official stated that this process would not happen quickly and would require at least a year.

Zagorodnyuk also mentioned that by transitioning to a full contract-based service, they aim to have a combat-ready military aligned with NATO standards.

It is important to note, however, that not all NATO members have abandoned conscripted armies. Strengthening the armed forces with contract soldiers has become more challenging recently, and several are currently exploring options to reinstate mandatory service.

In Armenia, military service includes both mandatory and contract components.