Ukraine MoD Reform Targets 30-50% Foreign Recruits in Assault Units (osw.waw.pl)

• Ukraine MoD aims for 30-50% foreign recruits in assault units; requires 60,000-100,000 foreign troops.
• Personnel shortage: 2 million evading, 290,000 desertion cases, 600,000 disabled since war start.
• Foreign recruits: official 10,000 (Feb-Mar 2026), unofficial 20,000; current recruitment 600/month.
• Financial constraints: budget shortfall UAH 180 billion for military pay; salary increases for Ukrainians first.
• Reform includes faster return for deserters and contract terms starting at 10 months.

"On 12 June, Ukraine’s MoD announced a personnel reform to attract foreign nationals to fill 30-50% of assault/infantry positions, up from current 5-10%. The reform introduces 10-month contracts, higher pay (up to $10,000/month), and expedited return for deserters. Aim: to discharge longest-serving soldiers by year-end. However, achieving 60,000-100,000 foreign recruits seems unlikely due to financial constraints and ongoing personnel shortage."