Martial law and mobilization extended until February 2026: what you need to know
21 October 2025 12:50
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has decided to extend martial law and general mobilization for another 90 days – until February 3, 2026. The respective bills No. 14128 and No. 14129 were supported by MPs, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
This is the 17th extension of martial law since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Who voted in favor:
- “Servant of the People – 199 votes
- “European Solidarity – 21
- “Batkivshchyna – 14
- “Platform for Life and Peace – 17
- “For the Future” – 10
- “Voice” – 14
- “Dovira” – 15
- “Restoration of Ukraine” – 10
This decision was supported by all parliamentary factions, which demonstrates the consolidation of political forces around national security issues.
What does the extension of martial law mean?
Martial law provides for
- restrictions on certain constitutional rights of citizens (including freedom of movement)
- enhanced protection of strategic facilities
- the possibility of expropriation of property for defense purposes
- control over the information sphere
The continuation of this regime is connected with the need to ensure the country’s defense, stable operation of the military administration and border protection.
What does the extension of mobilization mean?
Mobilization continues to apply to all categories of citizens who may be called up for service. This means
- delivery of calls and clarification of data at territorial recruitment centers continues
- persons liable for military service must comply with the rules of registration
- state authorities may take additional measures to prepare the reserve
The final entry into force will take place after the laws are signed by the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada and the President of Ukraine.
Why it is important
The extension of martial law guarantees a legal basis for the functioning of the Armed Forces, international military assistance and coordination with allies.
It also allows for
- to make personnel decisions in the army quickly
- control internal security and the fight against sabotage
- carry out mobilization activities without interruption
What’s next
Expected:
- signing of the documents by the President
- publication in the Voice of Ukraine
- update of mobilization schedules and explanations for citizens.
The last time martial law and general mobilization were extended was on July 25, 2025.
Draft laws on the extension of martial law and mobilization are regularly adopted before the expiration of the previous ones.
Martial law and mobilization in Ukraine
on February 24, 2022, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the introduction of martial law throughout Ukraine. The Verkhovna Rada voted in favor of martial law.
On the same day, due to Russian aggression and the introduction of martial law, restrictions on traveling abroad for men aged 18 to 60 began to apply in Ukraine.
Since then, martial law and mobilization in Ukraine have been repeatedly extended.
There is an option to lift martial law throughout the country or in certain parts of it before it expires. To do so, the president must issue a decree. The condition is that there is no threat to state security and territorial integrity.
