Autumn mobilization in Ukraine: who can be drafted among pensioners

Mobilization in Ukraine continues to expand the circle of persons subject to conscription, but reaching retirement age does not always mean complete exemption from military service.

Determining whether a pensioner is subject to mobilization or not depends on several factors: age, health status, and personal circumstances.

According to current legislation, there are groups of persons who are not subject to conscription in wartime:

Citizens aged 60 and older. This is the maximum conscription age – after reaching it, conscription ceases.

Persons who have an officially confirmed disability. They are entirely exempt from mobilization.
People suffering from serious illnesses or injuries. By decision of the military medical commission, they may be recognized as unfit for service, which also prevents their conscription.
Persons caring for a disabled or incapacitated family member. The law provides them with the opportunity to receive a deferral or exemption from conscription.
Citizens with exceptional state merit. They can be dismissed with the appropriate documents.
It should also be noted that retired military personnel, even receiving an army pension, remain in the reserve and are registered. Mobilization can only apply to those who correspond to their military specialization and current rank. Their transfer to other positions without consent is prohibited.

Thus, even though many pensioners formally remain subject to military service, in practice, age restrictions, health status, social obligations, and special merits to the state allow them to avoid mobilization.

In addition, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, led by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, has submitted to the Verkhovna Rada a bill that significantly increases liability for violations related to crossing the state border. This document provides for criminal liability for illegal departure and violation of the terms of stay outside the country for men of draft age.