Government adopted 11 key decisions to support veterans and their families

The Cabinet of Ministers has taken a significant step towards supporting Ukrainian Defenders. At a dedicated meeting on veterans’ policy, 11 decisions were adopted to support veterans and their families. For us at the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, these are not merely practical decisions but, above all, a reflection of the state’s values. For the first time in decades, veterans’ policy legislation is being updated to meet contemporary needs, moving beyond the limitations of the 1993 law. This signals Ukraine’s shift away from outdated approaches, establishing a modern policy that prioritises the individual, their dignity, needs, and contribution to the country’s defence and recovery.

In particular, the Government approved:

• A draft law “On the Fundamental Principles of State Veterans’ Policy”. This effectively updates the outdated law on the status of war veterans. The draft law reflects current realities, defines the statuses of veterans and their families, and guarantees medical, educational, social, and legal support. At the same time, all existing benefits and documents remain valid.
• A draft law “On Persons Involved in Measures to Protect Ukraine’s Independence, Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity”. This regulates the status and rights of citizens who contributed to the state’s defence capabilities but did not directly participate in combat. Assigning veteran status to them would be inconsistent with principles of objectivity and fairness and could diminish the contribution of military personnel.
• A draft law “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine Regarding Burial Places of Deceased Persons Who Defended Ukraine’s Independence, Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity”. This introduces uniform standards for the establishment and maintenance of military burials and the creation of military memorial cemeteries across Ukraine’s regions.

These draft laws are expected to be adopted by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine this autumn.

The Government also adopted key decisions regarding the provision of medical services:

• Approved the launch of an adaptation programme for veterans who have lost their sight.
• Simplified access to rehabilitation aids, such as wheelchairs, white canes, and other specialised equipment.
• Supported the right to free dental treatment for foreign military personnel who are or were fighting as part of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Separately, the Cabinet approved a mechanism for the state to cover 50% of motor third-party liability insurance for veterans and people with disabilities resulting from the war.

The Government also established a framework for interaction between specialists supporting veterans and the support service for military personnel, rank-and-file and senior civil protection service members, police officers, and their families.

The decisions adopted by the Government are not mere formalities but a tangible step towards implementing a systemic veterans’ policy in Ukraine. They ensure:

• Fair state support;
• Dignified conditions for veterans and their families to return to civilian life and thrive;
• Recognition of their contribution to the fight for independence;
• Proper commemoration of fallen Heroes.

These changes will help build robust support for those who risk their lives daily for our freedom and independence.

We express our gratitude to all relevant ministries and agencies for their joint efforts to ensure every veteran has the opportunity to recover and realise their potential.