Zelensky Signs Controversial Law Toughening Punishment for Desertion in Army | Kyiv Post |

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday signed a controversial law toughening punishments for disobedience or desertion from the armed forces amid Russia's invasion.

Stronger sanctions will also apply to offences such as threatening commanders, fleeing the battlefield, or consuming alcohol, according to the law published on the Ukrainian parliament's website.

The new law also prohibits courts from giving reduced or suspended sentences to soldiers found guilty.

Soldiers could face up to 12 years in prison for desertion, up to 10 years for disobedience or refusal to fight, and up to seven years for threatening a superior.

The text was criticised by human rights activists and some organisations had called on the president not to sign the measure, which was passed by parliament in December.

Candidates are now swept off the streets in small towns and villages and enlisted in UA for the battle front. Horrible loss of lives on both sides ...

Зеленський підписав закон про відповідальніс&# 1090;ь в армії|

Translation:
Zelensky signed the law on responsibility in the army | DW News -Jan. 25, 2023 |

The document provides for tougher administrative and criminal penalties for violations by the military. Earlier, human rights defenders spoke out against this law, but it was supported by the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

'Sapere aude'