Servicemen of the 28th Separate Mechanized Brigade who joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine under the “Contract 18-24” program are taking part in tactical field exercises in an unknown location in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on May 1, 2025. Getty Images/GENYA SAVILOV/AFP
The Ministry of Defense’s “Contract 18-24” program, which provides voluntary service in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has been expanded to all combat units of the Defense Forces of Ukraine. On October 21, the Deputy Head of the Office of the President for Defense Issues and the former commander of the 93rd Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, “Kholodnyi Yar,” Colonel Pavlo Palisa, said. He reminded that at the start of the project only a few brigades could be chosen for service; later the experiment was expanded, and now there is a decision to involve all combat units of the Defense Forces of Ukraine in the program.
Expansion of the program and Palisa’s remarks
“Now anyone who wants to defend Ukraine at such an age can choose any brigade. And all brigades will be able to recruit motivated youth to their ranks. The fight continues.”
What is known about “Contract 18-24”
Even before Trump’s inauguration, American officials and representatives of NATO member countries urged Ukraine to lower the mobilization age to 18, since live manpower is needed on the front. Zelensky rejected such requests and later announced the year-long “Contract 18-24,” which can be signed by men aged 18 to 24. Among the conditions are one million hryvnias, an interest-free mortgage, and a social package.
The contract provides only combat positions, including rifleman, grenadier, and reconnaissance scout. Training lasts more than 80 days. The money can also be received by people who serve in the military and are under 25 years old.
Interested applicants can submit an application on the official website 18-24.army.gov.ua or through the Reserve+ app. After that, a consultation with a recruiter is provided, signing the contract, and undergoing training in combat units.
However, there is a possibility that signing may be denied due to health, particularly mental health. The decision will be influenced by the Military Medical Commission and brigade representatives.
