Ukraine is preparing a phased demobilization of its longest serving troops, with discharges expected to begin by late autumn of 2026, according to Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.

Fedorov told Ukrainian television outlet TSN on Wednesday that the process would release soldiers who have fought continuously since Russia launched its full scale invasion in February 2022, as well as those who served since 2014.

“There will be two criteria: how many days you’ve been in military service, and how many combat days you’ve had. If you’ve served since 2014, this will count,” Fedorov said.

The announcement marks a significant policy shift for Kyiv, which has faced growing pressure from exhausted troops and their families to establish clear discharge rules.

Since the invasion began, Ukraine mobilized hundreds of thousands of military aged men. Under martial law, standard discharge rules were suspended, forcing many soldiers to serve indefinitely with limited home visits.

Phased Discharge Plan and Eligibility

Under the proposed plan, the government intends to discharge a wave of troops every month, though the exact number will depend on battlefield conditions and whether Russia launches another mobilization campaign.

Fedorov noted that Moscow drafted approximately 300,000 reservists in late 2022. Since then, Russia has relied on lucrative military contracts and ad hoc recruitment networks to maintain its ranks.

“If you have many combat days, you may be discharged by the President’s decree at the end of the year,” Fedorov said.

Troops who sign new contracts but later qualify for discharge will be released, with the latter taking precedence, he added.

Background

Ukraine’s previous attempt to introduce an automatic discharge after three years of service was withdrawn in 2024, a decision that proved deeply unpopular among the military and the public.

The lack of a formal discharge window has become a political flashpoint as the war enters its fourth year. The country now faces the dual challenge of retaining experienced troops while recruiting new volunteers.

Fedorov, who was appointed defense minister in January 2025, has sought to overhaul Ukraine’s military structure and bureaucratic processes to address long standing administrative and leadership issues.

Last week, the Ukrainian military announced a new set of contracts offering higher pay, clearly defined roles, and fixed discharge timelines.

“The process will begin so that soldiers can return to civilian life,” Fedorov said.

It has been more than 1,500 days since Russia launched its full scale invasion. The phased demobilization represents the first structured attempt to rotate out Ukraine’s most battle weary troops without a formal ceasefire.

Observers expect the discharge schedule to be adjusted based on operational needs and the security situation along the front lines.