They Want to Restructure Mobilization and the Work of Territorial Recruitment Centers: Which Changes Have Already Been Launched

In Ukraine, changes to the system of conscription into the Armed Forces and the work of territorial recruitment centers are being prepared. Part of the innovations has already been implemented, but a comprehensive reform of mobilization and a new model for the work of the Territorial Centers for Recruitment and Social Support (TC RSC) are not yet completed.

This is written by Ostrov.

The first stage of changes began in June 2026 of the year, when the Cabinet of Ministers approved an experimental project of motivational contracts, designed until June 2028 of the year.

Depending on service conditions, new contracts can be concluded for terms from six to 24 months. For current service members, a six- to 10-month infantry-assault and a 24-month combat or basic contract are provided.

After completion of such agreements, service members obtain the right to discharge and deferral. Its duration depends on the contract terms and prior service experience.

The next stage of changes is to concern recruitment and the mobilization system itself. Among the directions discussed are further digitization of procedures, development of the recruitment system, changes in TC RSC functions, and improvement of contract service.

After leadership changes at the Ministry of Defense, some previously prepared decisions were returned for additional agreement. As a result, the final model of reform has not yet been formed.

Separately, the future role of territorial recruitment centers is being discussed. Variants of reallocating their functions and changing the management system are being considered, but there is currently no final decision on the new TC RSC structure.

At the same time, separate digital services are already in operation, recruitment is developing, and new types of contracts are in use. At the same time, these tools remain separate elements rather than a single, completed recruitment system.

Another issue remains the mobilization age. In August, the secretary of the parliamentary committee, Roman Kostenko, stated that the General Staff is discussing the possibility of changing the approach to conscripting citizens aged over 50 or 55 years.

There was talk of possible exemptions for reservists with scarce or especially-needed army specialties. At the same time, this remains under discussion, and current mobilization rules have not changed based on such statements.