Join 10,000+ Kyiv Independent members todaySupport our reporting
Friday, March 24, 2023

Zelensky signs law increasing consequences for desertion

by The Kyiv Independent news deskJanuary 25, 2023 2:29 am
Share

President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law on Jan. 24 strengthening the criminal liability of military personnel for desertion or the failure to comply with combat orders. 

The law creates stricter punishments for disobedience in the military and desertion. It also prohibits Ukrainian courts from reducing or lessening any of the punishments. 

Sentences and fines for violations have increased, and inspections of servicepeople for intoxication will also be introduced. 

The law was supported by Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who in December called for stricter legal liability for actions such as desertion, leaving a military unit or place of service, and disobedience to combat orders. 

According to Zaluzhnyi, there were gaps in the previous legislation that only allowed for fines or probationary sentences, which were unfair and contributed to the loss of personnel, territory, and civilians on the front lines.

On Dec. 15, a petition was published asking Zelensky to veto the bill, gaining more than the 25,000 signatures necessary for consideration by the president's administration. 

The Kyiv Independent news desk
The Kyiv Independent news desk

We are the news team of the Kyiv Independent. We are here to make sure our readers get quick, essential updates about the events in Ukraine. Feel free to contact us via email with feedback and news alerts.

Take part in something bigger
Imagining what it will be like after Ukraine wins keeps me going: partnering with Ukrainian businesses and scientists, organizing investment events and hosting our international colleagues in Kyiv. But our fight is far from over. Join our ranks.
Daryna Shevchenko, chief executive officer
visamasterCardpaypal