The Ukrainian parliament has passed legislation permitting foreign individuals to apply for military service in the country.
A total of 276 lawmakers voted in favor of the resolution, which is expected to bolster employment across the Armed Forces, the National Guard, and the State Special Transport Service.
In addition to foreign applicants, the law extends eligibility to “stateless persons, ” or those not recognized as citizens by any government.
Applicants will undergo background checks to verify their legal status in Ukraine, determine if they have any administrative or criminal charges under Ukrainian law, and assess their connections to foreign states opposed to Ukraine.
Once accepted, recruits will be able to sign contracts for positions across enlisted units, senior ranks, and officer roles.
Bolstering Frontline
The bill cites the need to expand military recruitment to foreigners and stateless persons as a response to the “operational situation” along Ukraine’s frontline defenses against Russian forces.
“During the 2.5 years of the war against Russian aggression, we saw many foreigners who joined the Defense Forces and proved their ability to effectively perform complex tasks on the battlefield,” Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umyerov said in a Telegram update.
“Previously, they could serve only in private and sergeant positions, but the new law strengthens the personnel potential of our army.”
“I thank the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for their support. We continue to work together to strengthen our Defense Forces.”