Ukraine’s Defense Ministry has approved new regulations allowing contracted soldiers and conscripts aged 18-24 to pursue higher education while continuing their military service, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov has announced.

Under the new rules, service members will be able to study at universities without suspending their duties.

“To do this, they must obtain approval from their unit commander or higher command, which will be formalized through a military order,” Umerov says.

The changes are especially significant for those enlisted under the “Contract 18-24” program, which targets young recruits.

Ukraine plans reform to draw 18-25 year olds to its armed forces

“These soldiers will now be able to serve while advancing their education, developing professional skills, and preparing for future careers — both in the armed forces and civilian life,” Umerov adds.

The initiative, developed by the Defense Ministry, has already been approved by Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers and will soon be submitted to the president for final approval.

Earlier, the General Staff announced that by decree of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Major General Andrii Hnatov was appointed Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Since late February 2025, Hnatov has served as Deputy Chief of the General Staff. In his new position, he is tasked with enhancing the efficiency of the Armed Forces’ command structure, particularly amid ongoing reforms and the implementation of a corps-based system.

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