In response to growth in military personnel challenges, the Ukrainian government is considering introducing new mechanisms to boost motivation among servicemembers. A significant development is the 50,000 hryvnia payment for soldiers released from Russian captivity during rehabilitation, as passed by the Verkhovna Rada. Additional support includes 15 extra days of leave for servicemembers announced by President Zelenskyy. Despite concerns, government efforts ensure that military salaries are paid sustainably from tax revenue, affirmed by Prime Minister Shmyhal. The initiatives also include a law guaranteeing compensation for unused leave during martial law. However, Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi highlights that payment issues stem from bureaucratic inefficiencies rather than financial deficits, while the Ministry of Finance reassures smooth salary disbursements.
How is Ukraine financing military payments?
Ukraine is financing its military payments solely from its own tax revenues, as stated by officials. The government places financing the Armed Forces as a priority, ensuring soldiers receive their due salaries according to the plan, addressing misinformation regarding budget shortages.
Are there any new benefits for Ukrainian servicemembers?
Yes, starting August, Ukrainian servicemembers can enjoy 15 additional days of leave annually. Moreover, soldiers returning from Russian captivity will receive a rehabilitation payment of 50,000 hryvnias as part of ongoing support enhancements approved by the Rada to boost morale and provide adequate recovery time.
What are compensation policies for unused military leave?
The Verkhovna Rada has passed legislation that guarantees monetary compensation for all unused days of both basic and additional annual leave, in cases of discharge during martial law. This policy ensures fairness in compensating servicemembers unable to take their entitled leave during active duty.
Do payment issues for wounded soldiers relate to funding?
Payment issues for wounded soldiers primarily stem from bureaucratic delays rather than funding shortages. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi has indicated that procedural inefficiencies are the main hurdles in processing timely payments to wounded military personnel, despite the funds being available.
What measures are in place to prevent financial exploitation of military families?
The Security Service of Ukraine, alongside the National Police, actively investigates fraudulent activities such as the scheme exposed in Zaporizhzhia. This scheme involved extorting families of deceased soldiers for kickbacks from government benefits, showcasing ongoing efforts to protect military families from financial exploitation.
What did Ukrainian officers say about the misinformation on military payments?
Ukrainian officials, including the Ministry of Finance, have labeled rumors about a lack of funds for military payments as misinformation. They emphasize that financing the Armed Forces is a governmental priority, and payment schedules continue as planned without interruptions due to financial issues.
