Military Ombudsman: Clear Service Terms Unattainable Without Enhanced Mobilization

In the Office of the Military Ombudsman of Ukraine, officials have underscored the urgent need to tackle the issue of military personnel leaving their units without authorization. Olga Reshetilova, the Military Ombudsman, voiced these concerns during an interview recorded on March 24 and published on April 6 by the media outlet 'RBK-Ukraine'.

Reshetilova explained that a special working group has already been established within the Ombudsman's office to explore the possibilities of achieving clear service terms for military personnel. She emphasized the necessity of providing soldiers with a sense of certainty, stating that this is a crucial aspect for their well-being. 'For any individual, a lack of certainty in life can lead to burnout, demoralization, and even depression. Our servicemen, some since 2014 and others since 2022 or later, are living in a constant state of uncertainty,' she remarked.

Furthermore, Reshetilova noted that while some experts believe that solving this issue is straightforward—simply calculating how many soldiers need to be mobilized to determine how many can be released and when—she argued that the reality is much more complex. 'The formula must take into account the issue of fair mobilization. Fair mobilization is intertwined with several other factors, such as equitable reserving and existing corruption schemes. This is an area that requires significant attention,' she added.

The Ombudsman emphasized that in light of renewed discussions about increasing penalties for unauthorized abandonment of military units, her main point in all meetings and at all levels is that responsibility for evaders must be intensified first, followed by increased accountability for those who leave their posts without permission. 'We declare that servicemen are the best people, and we are grateful to them, but all the responsibility and restrictions continually fall solely on them. A large part of society does not feel these restrictions or their own responsibility,' Reshetilova explained.

She also pointed out that many conscripts are avoiding service due to fear of uncertainty. 'If they were told that service would last for two or three years, at least people could plan their lives accordingly. You serve for two to three years, and then you have another rotation,' the Ombudsman highlighted.

At the same time, Reshetilova warned that there will be no simple solutions to this situation, and society must be prepared for this reality. 'Those who have been fleeing from service for years are not going to like this. But it is necessary. We cannot endlessly rely on the same individuals; their resources are also running out... Clear service terms should not be expected without enhanced mobilization,' she concluded.