Ukraine triples frontline infantry pay, boosts foreign recruitment

Ukraine is significantly boosting pay for its soldiers, particularly frontline infantry, in an effort to combat personnel shortages and low morale. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the basic military salary will rise by a third to approximately $700 per month.

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The basic salary of military personnel will be increased by one-third, to about $700 per month.

Infantry troops directly engaged in combat will receive a substantial increase, earning around $7,000 monthly, a two to threefold jump from their current pay of $2,300 to $3,500. The government is also simplifying unit transfer procedures and easing rules for soldiers returning after unauthorized absences. A fixed service term will be introduced, followed by a six-month exemption from conscription.

In addition to financial incentives, Ukraine plans to intensify recruitment of foreign soldiers, aiming for them to fill 30% to 50% of positions in infantry and assault units. Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov emphasized the need for a new conscription system built on respect, fairness, and clear rules.

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Frontline infantry soldiers will receive about $7,000, two to three times more than the current $2,300 - $3,500.

These measures come as Kyiv faces a prolonged shortage of personnel. Many soldiers are exhausted after more than four years of conflict without clear discharge timelines, while new recruits, especially infantry, lack combat motivation. The EU's 90 billion euro loan has enabled Ukraine to raise its defense spending to a record $97 billion this year, supporting these initiatives.

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A new conscription system built on respect for the individual, fairness, and clear rules is necessary.