The process of mobilization of men over 50 in Ukraine

In Ukraine, general mobilization and martial law remain in effect until November 5, 2025. Conscription is open to conscripts and reservists aged 18 to 60, but there are certain exceptions for men over 50.

During martial law, men aged 18 to 60 who are eligible for military service and meet health requirements may be called up for service. The relevant categories are defined in the laws of Ukraine regarding mobilization training and military duty. Men aged 18 to 25 fall into the category of conscripts if they have not completed military service or studied at military educational institutions, which gives them the status of conscripts.

Men aged 25 to 60 are also eligible for mobilization if they are not eligible for a deferral or are not excluded from military registration. In 2024, territorial recruitment centers received new instructions that were not widely published. According to them, men over 50 years old are not sent to the front line, but perform functions in rear units or in support positions, as confirmed by the deputy head of the CCC in Kyiv, Larisa Kozak.

Mobilization process for men over 50 years old

The legislation regulating general mobilization specifies the obligations of men and the conditions for obtaining a deferral. However, there are no instructions that would exempt men from conscription solely due to age. Therefore, all conscripts over the age of 50 can be mobilized if they are recognized as fit for service.

Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers 560 determines the procedure for mobilization, including the delivery of summonses and summons to pass a military medical commission. No changes have been made to this resolution regarding the mobilization of men over 50 years old.

Thus, they are subject to mobilization under general conditions, similar to other conscripts.

Requirements for conscripted men over 50

The deputy head of the CCC noted in January 2025 that men over 50 can be drafted into support units if they do not have a deferment and have received a conclusion from a military medical commission on their fitness for service.

“Regarding men 50+, the situation remains unchanged. They undergo a medical commission and, according to our instructions, are considered fit for service. I have not seen cases where they were sent to combat positions,” she said.

According to the mobilization procedure, men over 50 must:

Be on military registration at the CCC at their place of residence and at work, specifying their registration data.

Appear at the specified time and place according to the summons, if one was received.

Pass a military medical examination if previously recognized as limitedly fit, or if their fitness conclusion has expired.

Arrive according to a mobilization order, if one has been received, and do not have the right to a postponement.

Thus, if a man over the age of 50 is recognized as fit for service, he can be mobilized according to the general procedure. According to the CCC, they are usually assigned to support positions in the rear.

Men who have reached the age of 60 are not subject to mobilization, but can independently conclude a contract for service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine if they meet the physical requirements.

General mobilization is underway in Ukraine, and those liable for military service can use the “Reserve +” application to update their data, receive documents, or check their status.