This legislative step followed a thorough analysis by the President's Office to ensure the law's compliance with the Ukrainian Constitution.
This law comes amid some controversy, particularly regarding the removal of a provision that previously allowed for the demobilization of military personnel after 36 months (3 years) of service. The removal of this clause has sparked significant debate and dissatisfaction among social media users and the public.
In response to the concerns about demobilization, Dmytro Lazutkin, spokesman for the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, has stated that demobilization norms will be addressed in a separate draft law. This new legislation is expected to be developed soon by the General Staff and the Ministry of Defense.
Further detailing the legislative process, it was reported that on April 11, the Ukrainian parliament passed the draft law in the second reading. An amendment to exclude the demobilization norm from the draft law was adopted by the People's Deputies with 227 votes just prior to this passage.
Additionally, on April 10, the Ukrainian parliament supported the first reading of draft law No. 11079-1, concerning the mobilization of convicted persons. President Zelenskyy has remarked on the ongoing mobilization processes in Ukraine, notably stating that "demobilization does not exist" during wartime.
On March 21, another related draft law, No. 10313, was adopted by the Verkhovna Rada. It ensures the rights of military personnel and police officers to social protection, requiring men previously recognized as limited fit for service to undergo re-examination within nine months.
These legislative actions reflect Ukraine’s ongoing adjustments to its military and defense policies in response to the current security environment and the ongoing conflict within the country.
