The algorithm for returning from unauthorized abandonment has been updated in Ukraine: what has changed after March 1
Kyiv • UNN
Military personnel who have abandoned their unit for the first time can return to service, avoiding punishment, if they obtain the consent of the commander and the decision of the court. Repeated unauthorized abandonment is punishable by imprisonment for 5 to 10 years.
The State Bureau of Investigation has clarified the updated algorithm of actions for servicemen who have deserted their military service locations - it came into effect on March 1 of this year. This was reported in Telegram by the press service of the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, UNN reports.
Details
If the unauthorized abandonment of the unit lasted up to three days, then a criminal proceeding is not initiated, and the soldier can return to the place of service. Under these conditions, the payment of monetary and the implementation of food, clothing and other types of support are restored.
If a serviceman went AWOL for three days or more, while the desertion was committed for the first time, and the serviceman wishes to return to service, then a criminal proceeding is initiated against him. At the same time, the serviceman personally applies through the Army+ application to the commander (chief) of the military unit (institution) and receives written consent for further service.
Next, the soldier submits a petition to the prosecutor or the pre-trial investigation body (SBI or National Police), or the court, about the intention to return to service and attaches the written consent of the commander. Materials are also sent to the court to release the soldier from criminal liability - the court makes a corresponding decision. After that, the soldier provides the commander with the court decision and returns to service.
If AWOL occurs repeatedly, and the soldier does not want to return to service, then a criminal proceeding is initiated against him - he is also put on the wanted list. In case of detention, a preventive measure is chosen for him and the relevant indictment is sent to the court. Committing AWOL is punishable by imprisonment for a term of 5 to 10 years.
Let us remind you
The number of appeals regarding violations of rights by employees of territorial recruitment centers or TCCs in Ukraine has increased in 2025. This was announced by the Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets.