President Volodymyr Zelensky has approved legislation that lets members of Ukraine’s Armed Forces store reproductive cells in cryobanks at no personal cost. The move was reported by the publication Strana.ua via its Telegram channel. The president’s signature confirms that service members can take advantage of low-temperature storage to safeguard their biological material for potential future use.
The stated aim of the measure is to preserve the possibility of biological parenthood in the event of injuries incurred on the battlefield. This policy is presented as a means to maintain the option of fathering or mothering a child in the wake of combat-related harm, should circumstances permit in the future.
Officials have clarified that the policy applies to both male and female personnel serving in the Ukrainian forces, underscoring a commitment to gender-inclusive access to reproductive preservation. The framework is described as extending beyond gender lines, ensuring every service member has the opportunity to protect their reproductive potential.
Yaroslav Zheleznyak, a deputy with the Verkhovna Rada, noted earlier in March that the government had passed a law enabling free storage of reproductive cells for military personnel. The comment reflects the legislative intention to remove financial barriers and simplify participation for soldiers who choose to pursue cryobank preservation as part of their service benefits.
Earlier discussions by experts raised questions about practical considerations when collecting sperm for cryobanking among participants in combat-related operations. These conversations highlighted potential medical and logistical challenges, alongside the broader policy goals of enabling service members to plan for their future family lives in tandem with ongoing national security needs.