Zelensky signs law granting full rights to convict soldiers

Since May 2024, Ukrainian prisoners have been able to volunteer for military service in exchange for amnesty at the end of martial law. The new law codifies and expands upon the rights of these soldiers, ensuring they receive 15 days of annual leave, access to proper medical care following injuries, and the ability to transfer between units after one year of service or sooner for health reasons. Female service members will also be entitled to maternity and childcare leave.

Individuals convicted of serious crimes, such as murder and rape, remain ineligible to volunteer. Despite these exclusions, former prisoners integrated into specialized units or regular mobilized forces have become a vital component of the front lines amidst a broader manpower crisis. Previously, the legal framework for their rights was often unclear, leaving soldiers who had served in demanding roles without adequate protections.

Deputy Defense Minister Liubov Halan stated that the law is crucial for protecting those who have demonstrated loyalty to Ukraine on the battlefield and rectifies past injustices. The Ministry of Defense believes these changes will not only improve overall recruitment from the prison system but also serve as a significant motivator for those already serving.