Consequences and Legal Responsibility for Ignoring Draft Notices During Martial Law in Ukraine
During the ongoing martial law and general mobilization in Ukraine, there is heightened attention to the duties of reservists who receive draft notices and are obliged to appear at military commissariats for necessary procedures.
Failure to respond to summons can result in serious legal consequences, including fines and criminal liability.
Legislation has introduced increased penalties, effective from 2024, with fines ranging from 17,000 to 25,500 hryvnias.
These penalties apply not only to failure to appear for data clarification or medical examinations but also to more severe steps, such as receipt of a combat draft notice, which indicates the final stage of mobilization and compels the individual to serve.According to expert Yaroslav Khlivny, ignoring a combat draft notice can lead to criminal charges under Article 336 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, punishable by up to five years in prison.
Moreover, the person may be declared wanted, and extensive efforts can be undertaken to locate them, ultimately resulting in conscription or detention.
However, the expert emphasizes that with proper legal approach, issues can be avoided: timely notification about reasons for inability to appear and supporting documents may allow postponements or rescheduling of summons.
It is crucial to inform authorities within three days of the missed deadline and to visit the military commissariat within seven days.Regarding deferments or exemptions, valid reasons include natural disasters, death of close relatives, serious illness, participation in hostilities, among others.
These circumstances must be documented with official proof, such as medical certificates, death certificates, or police reports.
With this documentation, reservists can obtain delays through systems like “Reserve+” and “Army+.” Overall, acting responsibly and within the law will minimize complications and legal consequences, ensuring that reservists fulfill their duties without unnecessary penalties.