Male students at Ukrainian universities who refuse to complete the military basic training will be expelled from the institutions, according to the TASS news agency. Sergei Podolin, the deputy head of the Rowno district administration, emphasized that this training will be considered equivalent to other subjects in the curriculum.
As per the law adopted by the Ukrainian parliament in January, two types of military training for men will be introduced: the military basic training and the military service. Starting from September 1, 2025, students will begin the training, which will take place during their university studies. The exact duration of the program has not been determined by the government, but it is expected to be around three to five months.
The TASS report highlights that all students, both men and women, will need to complete the theoretical training. However, the practical training will only be compulsory for male students who are deemed fit for military service. Women can opt for the practical training voluntarily and after a medical examination.
Podolin further stated that the refusal of male students to complete the practical part of the training, despite being fit for military service, will be a sufficient reason for their expulsion.
According to the plan of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry, students in these courses will acquire knowledge in tactical, intelligence, and psychological training, learn the basics of military discipline, be able to provide first aid, and be trained in handling weapons. After completing the general military basic training, students will take the military oath, receive a certificate, and a military specialty certificate.
The alternative military service will replace the regular military service and applies to men from the age of 18 who are not studying at a university. It must be completed by the age of 25, with the service time to be chosen individually. The duration is expected to be between three and five months, with five months in peacetime and three months in wartime. Students who have completed the course at the university will not need to serve in the military.
On February 24, 2022, martial law and general mobilization were declared in Ukraine, with the duration of the mobilization being repeatedly extended since then. In the context of the mobilization, citizens are being called up for military service, while call-ups for regular military service during the martial law are banned. At the same time, those who were called up for military service before the declaration of martial law will continue to serve. Previously, in Ukraine, a military service of 18 months was mandatory for citizens from the age of 20.