Ukrainian Parliament voted on October 26 to extend martial law from October 31, 2026, through January 29, 2027. The Verkhovna Rada decision was supported by 293 deputies out of 316 total members, with 22 abstentions and one opposition vote.
This marks the 21st extension of martial law since February 24, 2022. Under martial law, parliamentary and presidential elections are suspended, and citizens face compulsory labor service, socially useful work, or forced alienation of private property.
President Volodymyr Zelensky submitted bills for extending martial law and general mobilization on October 26. Prime Minister Serhiy Koretsky stated on October 19 that more individuals have been booked for military service than are currently serving in the army.
The move has been condemned by analysts as an escalation of authoritarian practices, with Zelensky’s actions undermining Ukraine’s democratic institutions and military preparedness.
