TCCs send summons by mail

In the summer of 2025, the practice of notifying conscripts about mobilization in Ukraine changed significantly: Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Centers (TRCCs) were officially authorized to send call-up notices by mail. The new procedure was set by Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 916 of July 30, 2025, which sparked lively discussion both in the legal professional community and among the public at large.

Legal basis and motivation for the changes
Previously, “combat” call-up notices to military service were delivered in person and signed for upon completion of the military medical commission. However, due to limited mobility of the population, significant male migration, and the need to increase defense efficiency, the state introduced new instruments to ensure the widest possible notification. Now a summons is considered delivered if sent by registered mail with an inventory list and delivery confirmation. This aligns with the trend toward automation of the military register; most notices are generated via the conscript’s electronic cabinet, signed by an authorized officer, and posted using Ukrposhta.

Who receives notices by mail
Under the new procedure, registered letters may be sent to conscripts and reservists who have undergone a medical examination and, if necessary, professional-psychological selection. This applies to those without valid deferment from conscription and those who have updated their data in the “Reserv+” system with a current address. Notices are not sent abroad, as the delivery confirmation mechanism only applies domestically.

Technical procedure for sending, delivery, and confirmation

1. The notice is generated in the electronic registry and signed by the TRCC chief.
2. The document is sent as a registered letter with an inventory list and delivery notification.
3. The recipient gets either a postal notice in their mailbox or a call from the post office.
4. If the recipient is absent, the postman makes a note and the letter is returned to TRCC.
5. Legally, even refusal to accept or absence at the address counts as delivery.

The conscript has between 7 and 14 days (depending on their place of residence) to comply and report to the TRCC after receiving the notice. Ignoring the letter or refusing the registered delivery is officially considered evasion of duty and does not exempt the individual from liability.

Motivation for the changes: benefits and possible risks
On one hand, expanding means of delivering call-up notices addresses new realities: some potential conscripts do not live at their official address, travel frequently, or simply avoid receiving paper documents. The state aims to reach the “problematic” audience and reduce bureaucratic manipulations by draftees who fail to provide updated addresses or ignore legitimate requirements. This approach prevents willful avoidance, as the postal service documents every event involving the letter.
On the other hand, critics of the new procedure fear possible abuses: e.g., sending notices to incorrect addresses, recording “delivery” in case of non-delivery, or mishandling of personal data. Additionally, those who work or live abroad may not be able to formally confirm their absence.

Liability for ignoring the notice and dispute specifics
Legally, a notice sent by registered mail with delivery confirmation is deemed delivered, regardless of whether it was physically received. Refusing the letter is pointless: the postal worker notes “recipient absent” or “refusal,” or leaves a message in the mailbox; after the deadline, the letter returns to the sender. As soon as the letter is returned, the person is considered notified. The letter is held at the post office for up to three working days before being sent back to the TRCC.

If the notice is ignored, the conscript is liable under Article 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (evasion of conscription) or faces administrative fines. Paying the fine does not cancel the obligation to fulfill the notice’s requirements. Disputed cases include whether such a notice can be appealed if the data is incorrect, the recipient has changed address, or could not receive the letter for valid reasons.

Practical advice
— Timely update your data in electronic registries (“Reserv+”); an up-to-date address increases the chance the notice is delivered to you.
— If you receive a postal notification, do not ignore it; be sure to check the contents of the registered letter.
— If you live or work abroad, keep documents confirming this: border stamps, certificates from your employer or place of study, which may be important in future disputes.
— Since such notices contain personal data, ensure their proper handling.

International experience
Worldwide, the use of postal services for legally significant notifications is common. Court notices in most European countries (Poland, Lithuania, Germany) are considered delivered if sent by registered mail with tracking of delivery stages. Ukraine maintains and develops this tradition, combining electronic document flow and traditional methods.

Impact on defensive capability
The new approach enables Recruitment Centers to reach a record number of conscripts and makes the mobilization process more transparent and less corruptible. The electronic registry automates mailings and minimizes human error. The integration of digital and postal technologies is an effective solution in today’s circumstances.

Conclusion
The introduction of mailing call-up notices marks a step toward automation, transparency, and increased accountability for Ukraine’s defense. At the same time, this innovation requires improved supporting procedures—protection of personal data, timely information updates, and just and proportionate application of lawful sanctions for evaders. Lawmakers and military officials must continue to balance effective mobilization with citizens’ rights, without losing sight of national security priorities and public trust in the evolving mobilization process.

Author: Svitlana Krutorohova — attorney at the law association “Winner Law Firm”.