The Ukrainian Defense Ministry has introduced a new procedure for military personnel who left their units without authorization (AWOL). As Ukrainska Pravda reports, the regulation applies to all who were absent before June 12, 2026. They can return voluntarily by September 20, 2026 — without going through reserve battalions and with the option to choose a new unit from a list.
The easiest way to submit a request is through the ‘Army+’ app. There, soldiers can select a new unit, specify their desired service branch and experience, and receive guidance until integration. After approval, the app shows an ‘On the way’ status, giving five days to report to the new unit. Alternatively, requests can be submitted directly to the desired unit or through the recruitment centers of the Ground Forces and Air Assault Forces.
The program runs for 100 days — until September 20, 2026 — and is initially available for members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the State Special Transport Service. For National Guard soldiers, the option to submit a request via ‘Army+’ will be activated in the coming days. Further details are available on the website szch.army.gov.ua.
Source: www.pravda.com.ua
