The possibility of mobilizing men aged 50 to 60 during the war in Ukraine
Amid ongoing general mobilization and the introduction of martial law in Ukraine, the issue of conscripting men aged 50 to 60 is becoming increasingly relevant and subject to discussion among military experts and the public alike.
According to current legislation, all reservists who receive summons are obliged to undergo military service or meet the requirements of mobilization processes, regardless of age, if deemed fit by the military medical commission.
Lawyer Marina Bekalo explained that military registration rules do not contain exceptions for men aged 50 to 60, meaning these individuals are automatically subject to mobilization on general grounds.
This implies that if they are recognized as fit for service by the military medical commission and there are no grounds for deferment or exemption, they could be called up to military units.
At the same time, according to internal directives and mobilization plans developed by the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the necessary number of recruits, the recommended age range, and military occupation specialties are determined.
However, these directives are classified and not publicly accessible, making precise conclusions about the rules for men aged 50-60 difficult at present.
Expert Bekalo noted that men over 55 are called-up less frequently compared to younger age groups.
She also mentioned that such men are mostly assigned to logistical roles, drivers, or other support positions in supply units or rear structures.
Furthermore, mobilizing men aged 50+ for combat positions does not violate the law, as it is fully permitted under current regulations.
Previously, military lawyer Diana Ternova discussed recent changes in the military registration rules for women, but questions regarding men in this age bracket continue to be relevant within the context of military registration procedures.