Kyiv: Ukraine has announced a significant change in its travel regulations, permitting men aged 18 to 22 to leave the country. This adjustment comes amid the ongoing martial law in response to the conflict with Russia.

According to Anadolu Agency, Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko shared this update on Telegram, stating that the Ukrainian government has officially adopted the new border-crossing provisions. This policy change aims to maintain connections between Ukrainians and their homeland, even for those currently residing abroad. Svyrydenko emphasized that the updated procedure will be effective the day after the relevant document is officially published.

Since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war on February 24, 2022, Ukraine has enforced martial law and general mobilization, restricting men aged 18 to 60 from international travel, with limited exceptions. However, this latest decision aligns with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent directive to simplify border crossings for young Ukrainians by increasing the minimum age restriction to 22.

A draft bill to amend the border crossing provisions was presented to Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, last Friday, signifying the government's commitment to adapting its policies in light of ongoing circumstances.