Ukraine wants to punish illegal border crossing: what will change
21 August 01:23
On August 20, the Cabinet of Ministers approved a draft law on criminal liability for illegal border crossings during martial law. This was announced by Taras Melnychuk, a representative of the Cabinet of Ministers in the Verkhovna Rada, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
The draft law proposes to repeal Article 204-3 of the Code of Administrative Offenses due to its “partial unconstitutionality and ineffectiveness.” In addition, it is planned to transfer cases of illegal border crossing to border guards.
The document also provides for changes to the Criminal Code.
Among the key provisions:
- crossing the border outside official checkpoints during martial law or a state of emergency will be considered a criminal offense;
- obstructing the construction or development of border infrastructure will also be punishable under a criminal article;
- damage to facilities ensuring the security of the state border will be subject to criminal liability.
The government explains that such changes are necessary to strengthen border control, combat illegal migration and protect Ukraine’s national security.
Separate liability is established for conscripts and persons liable for military service who violate the terms of their stay abroad. It is proposed that they should be obliged to comply with the specified time limits for departure.
Previously, administrative liability was provided for illegal crossing of the state border. It was a fine that ranged from UAH 3,400 to UAH 8,500.
