Over the past two weeks, more than 1,700 servicemen have returned to duty after unauthorized absence from their units (UAU). The process of voluntary return continues, and servicemen have until August 30 to return to service without facing criminal liability.
This was stated by the Director of the State Bureau of Investigation, Oleksiy Sukhachov, in a comment to the "Interfax-Ukraine" agency on August 26. He noted that over the past two weeks, there has been a significant increase in the number of servicemen wishing to return to duty after UAU.
Over 1,700 servicemen returned to duty in two weeks
Sukhachov reported that a joint meeting was held with the National Police, the command of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and the Military Law Enforcement Service.
During the meeting, elements of cooperation were clarified to facilitate the return of servicemen to their or other units, "who left their units unauthorized due to certain circumstances."
"A media campaign was conducted, and a series of measures were initiated with local authorities," – said the Director of the SBI. As a result, over the past two weeks alone, more than 1,700 servicemen have already returned to their military units or are in the process of returning," – noted the Director of the SBI.
Many have directly contacted the SBI through a form that the Bureau published last week, the official added.
According to data from the military and police, the number of those willing to return is significantly higher.
"Servicemen still have a few days to make their decision. Until August 30, a simplified procedure for returning to units is in effect for servicemen who unauthorizedly left their units or places of service," – said Sukhachov.
He emphasized that returning to duty is "not only a chance to correct past mistakes but also a demonstration of responsibility towards comrades, family, and the country."
"Today, every defender is important for Ukraine, and our victory depends on unity and readiness to fulfill military duties," – said the head of the SBI.
Until August 30, return is possible without criminal punishment
On April 30, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, with a majority vote, extended the deadline for voluntary return of servicemen after UAU to August 30, 2025. Until this date, they can return without facing criminal liability.