First 18-24-Year-Old Recruits Join Ukrainian Army, Edelweiss Brigade

The first recruits to enlist under Ukraine’s new Contract 18-24 program have taken the oath of service in the 10th Edelweiss Mountain Assault Brigade, the brigade’s press service reported.

“The first volunteers to sign a one-year contract have now officially joined the legendary Edelweiss brigade,” the brigade stated.

“They made a deliberate choice and demonstrated their commitment to the Ukrainian people. Now they are part of one of the most capable brigades in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.”

The brigade command and the mayor of Kolomyia welcomed the recruits, who announced an additional UAH 30,000 ($800) in financial support for purchasing the necessary equipment for volunteers joining the brigade under the program.

“Contract 18-24” Initiative

On February 11, 2025, Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers approved the Defense Ministry’s Contract 18-24 initiative, a voluntary service program for Ukrainians aged 18 to 24.

Candidates are recruited through both military enlistment offices and brigade recruiters. The contract lasts one year, with a mandatory minimum of six months in combat operations.

Participants receive a UAH 1 million ($26,000) bonus, with UAH 200,000 paid upfront and the remainder distributed throughout the service period.

Monthly salaries can reach UAH 120,000 ($3,200). Additional benefits include access to a state-funded education program and a “zero” mortgage.

Recruits also receive free medical care, including dental prosthetics, and the right to travel abroad after completing one year of service. They are exempt from mobilization for 12 months after their contract ends.

Candidates are accepted for military service as privates. The contract is concluded for service in the following regular positions:

• Volunteers join as privates in positions such as rifleman (or senior rifleman),
• sniper (rifleman-sniper, rifleman-medic),
• grenade launcher operator (assistant grenade launcheroperator, senior grenade launcheroperator),
• scout (or senior scout).

If unable to continue combat duties due to health reasons, they may be reassigned to other roles.

The program currently applies to six brigades: the 72nd, 95th, 38th, 10th, 92nd, and 28th. Applications can be submitted via the project website or the “Reserve+” app.