Army to Launch Major Reform in June, Zelensky Announces

Ukraine will begin implementing a comprehensive military reform in June, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on May 1.

According to the president, key directions for the reform were agreed throughout April, with military leadership and the government defining the overall framework. Final details are expected to be approved in May, allowing the reform to officially launch in June. Initial results are anticipated within the same month, particularly in improving financial support for soldiers, sergeants, and commanders of Ukraine’s Defense Forces.

A central element of the reform is a significant increase in military pay based on fairness. Zelenskyy said compensation will reflect frontline combat duties, real combat and leadership experience, and overall effectiveness. The minimum salary for rear positions will be set at no less than 30,000 hryvnias (approximately €700), while those serving on the front line will receive significantly higher pay. Commanders, combat sergeants, and officers are also expected to see substantial increases, described as “dignified and noticeable.”

Special attention will be given to infantry troops. Zelenskyy stressed that Ukrainian infantry soldiers, who hold the front line, must feel genuinely valued by the state. He has ordered the introduction of special contracts specifically for infantry personnel, with payments ranging from 250,000 to 400,000 hryvnias (roughly €5,600 to €9,500) depending on combat performance.

Another key component of the reform involves changes to recruitment and personnel management. The plan includes strengthening the contract-based system within the Defense Forces, establishing clear service terms and enabling the gradual demobilization of previously mobilized personnel based on defined time criteria, starting this year.

Zelenskyy also instructed military leadership and the defense minister to consult with frontline commanders and incorporate their feedback into the reform process. He expects a detailed report next week outlining concrete steps for implementation, including a schedule for increased payments starting in June and the structure of updated contracts.