Source: report from the Ministry of Defense
Verbatim: "Military personnel who have deserted their unit for the first time have until March 1, 2025, to return to service without facing criminal liability and to transfer to another unit.
However, this simplified procedure does not apply to soldiers who deserted after November 29, 2024 (after the law regarding this procedure came into effect - ed.). Such personnel, even if it is their first desertion, cannot return to service and be exempt from criminal liability through the expedited process."
Details: The Ministry of Defense reminded that these soldiers must undergo the standard procedure, which involves the commander's consent, an investigation, and a court decision.
"Only after a court ruling is the soldier reinstated in service, including the restoration of monetary payments and social guarantees that were suspended after the commander filed a report about the desertion," the statement reads.
Background:
- On November 21, the Verkhovna Rada adopted a law on voluntary return to service following a first desertion.
- On November 28, 2024, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the relevant document, which came into effect on November 29.
- On January 9, the Verkhovna Rada supported the extension of the voluntary return period for those military personnel who deserted their unit until March 1, 2025.