Widely respected CinC backs bill to toughen punishment for soldiers amid public debate

Zaluzhnyi posted the relevant statement on Telegram, Ukrinform reports.

"Today I am forced to raise a rather difficult issue,” Zaluzhnyi said, adding that this is about toughening liability for absence without leave, desertion, escaping a battlefield or snubbing orders, including to take up arms and fight.

He noted that he supports the relevant changes to the legislation, adopted by Parliament, and asks the President to sign the bill into law.

"My opinion clearly reflects the position of commanders, who demanded that a systemic solution be introduced," Zaluzhnyi noted.

The Commander-in-Chief said that the army is all about discipline.

"And if the loopholes in legislation do not ensure compliance, and ‘refusers’ can pay a fine of up to 10 percent of their combat pay or go on probation, I see this as unfair. Moreover – and this is key – it’s other servicemen who are forced to cover the exposed areas of the front line, which leads to higher losses of personnel, territories, and civilians. Often, positions we lose we then have to regain through assault, at a very high cost. It mustn’t be like that," Zaluzhnyi said.

According to CinC, the issue could be solved in a softer way, but only in peacetime. In the conditions of war, quick and effective solutions are needed.

"Is there a threat of increased impunity for commanders? No, commanders are also fully legally responsible for their actions or inaction. And I totally trust my subordinates. Do I recognize that problems exist that lead to soldiers abandoning their positions at their own will? There are such issues, and I am working on their elimination. And the successful operations to liberate our country’s territories are a confirmation of that," said Zaluzhnyi.

He also noted that it is normal to have a public debate on such sensitive topics.

"Yes, we are in a democratic state. But for just as long as it doesn't hinder our effort to win the war. Therefore, I urge everyone to put an end to this debate. And together we will bring Victory closer," said Zaluzhnyi.

As reported, on December 13, the Verkhovna Rada adopted a law on amendments to the Criminal Code, the Code of Administrative Offenses, and other legislative acts regarding the specifics of military service under martial law or combat conditions.