Voluntary Return from AWOL (Absence Without Official Leave)

Procedure for Voluntary Return from AWOL (Absence Without Official Leave) to the “RUGBY TEAM” Unmanned Systems Battalion of the 129th OMBr

Servicemembers of the Defense Forces of Ukraine have the opportunity to voluntarily return to service after going AWOL. The program is active until September 20, 2026, and allows individuals to independently choose a unit for further service, including the “RUGBY TEAM” unmanned systems battalion of the 129th OMBr.

Conditions for Participation in the Return Program

The procedure applies to servicemembers of the AFU (Armed Forces of Ukraine), NGU (National Guard of Ukraine), and DSST (State Special Transport Service) whose AWOL status was recorded up to and including June 12, 2026. If the AWOL is recorded in the military unit’s documents on June 13, 2026, or later, the servicemember will not be eligible to use this procedure. In such cases, the return will follow current general legislation without the option to choose a specific unit.

What are the Benefits of Voluntary Return from AWOL?

A servicemember can independently choose a unit and specify a desired position where they will be most effective, such as a UAV pilot, mechanic, or technician. Upon arrival at the unit and official enlistment, financial payouts, food supply, and other types of material support are fully restored. The processing of the report (raport) in the military unit takes up to 7 days. During this time, unit representatives will contact the servicemember to clarify details and discuss service conditions based on their experience.

Step-by-Step Actions for the Servicemember

There are three ways to submit a report (raport) to the chosen unit:

• via the Army+ electronic application for representatives of the AFU, DSST, and NGU
• directly to the chosen military unit for the AFU and DSST
• through recruiting centers exclusively for the AFU.
  It is not permitted to submit multiple reports simultaneously.

After the report is approved via the Army+ app, the status “En Route” (“U dorozi”) will appear, serving as official confirmation of the voluntary return. Servicemembers of the AFU and DSST are given 5 days for travel to the unit. For the NGU, the travel time is 96 hours, and departure must begin after receiving notification that the order has been signed. If the report was submitted through an AFU recruiting center, the servicemember receives a paper directive and 5 days for travel. Registration and restoration of allowances begin immediately upon arrival.