The Ukrainian government has introduced a requirement for English language proficiency among military personnel serving under contract

To qualify for specific roles, officers and NCOs serving under contract will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has adopted a pertinent resolution.

Primarily, this pertains to senior positions within:

• Ministry of Defence of Ukraine;

• Armed Forces of Ukraine;

• Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s MoD;

• State Transport Special Service

• Administration of State Guard of Ukraine;

• Security Service of Ukraine;

• Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine;

• State Service of Special Communication and Information Protection of Ukraine;

• State Border Guard Service of Ukraine;

• National Guard of Ukraine.

The document outlines a specific list of positions and the required language proficiency levels, as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and STANAG 6001 NATO standard.

“For successful Euro-Atlantic integration, Ukraine requires highly qualified military professionals who can implement NATO standards, share our unique combat experience with partners, and actively engage in international security initiatives. Proficiency in English is becoming critically important for the Ukrainian military, as it is essential for effective cooperation with allies and enhancing the defense capabilities of our country,” said Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Brigadier General of Justice Serhii Melnyk.

This decision will positively affect the professional duties of officers and NCOs. This initiative will also significantly enhance the professional engagement of military personnel involved in international military-technical collaboration, thereby propelling Ukraine's progress toward EU and NATO membership.