The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a new one-year contract system for military volunteers aged 18 to 24, with a potential annual income of up to UAH 2 million.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced the decision on Facebook, according to Ukrinform.
Umerov said the initiative aims to attract motivated citizens who will be able to choose their position and brigade from a designated list, undergo intensive training, and receive competitive financial and social benefits.
“We are building a new army recruitment system that meets modern challenges,” Umerov said.
The one-year volunteer contract for 18 to 24-year-olds includes basic military training, specialized professional training, and adaptation courses within a military unit.
Volunteers will receive UAH 1 million in one-time payments, including UAH 200,000 upon signing the contract, UAH 300,000 after completing training, and UAH 500,000 upon discharge from the military unit.
Additionally, they will receive a monthly salary of up to UAH 120,000 and extra bonuses for combat missions.
Umerov said that the total annual income could reach UAH 2 million, depending on combat tasks.
Additionally, compensation for housing rental during service is provided, and after its completion, there is an opportunity to obtain a 0% mortgage under the “eOselia” (“eHome”) program.
A number of social guarantees are also included, such as higher education within established quotas funded by the state after the completion of the contract.
Furthermore, volunteers are granted the right to travel abroad freely after being discharged from service. They are also exempt from mobilization for 12 months following the completion of their contract.
To become a recruit under the “Contract 18-24” program, applicants must submit an application at 18-24.army.gov.ua or select a brigade via the “Reserve+” app (this feature will be available in the next update). After applying, recruits can consult with a recruiter for further guidance.
Umerov said that this approach is part of building a professional army.
“We are bringing in motivated warriors, providing them with career growth opportunities, and ensuring fair service conditions,” he said.
Source: Ukraine's defense minister: One-year contracts approved for volunteers aged 18-24
