Ukraine War: Kyiv introduces bonuses for killings and prisoners of war

All soldiers should be able to benefit

Ukraine introduces bounty for killings and captures

Ukrainian fighters receive almost 2,000 euros for the capture of a Russian soldier. The bonus is part of a comprehensive army reform.

The Ukraine has passed a new decision under which the armed forces will receive cash rewards for capturing and killing Russian soldiers. The Defense Ministry announcement said this was the first step in transforming the armed forces. The regulations apply retroactively from June 1, 2026.

For the capture of an enemy soldier, military personnel receive 100,000 Ukrainian hryvnia (around 1,960 euros), and for killing a military opponent 15,000 hryvnia (around 294 euros). The prerequisite is that the killing took place in an exchange of fire or in close combat and can be proven by appropriate video recording.

The payments are based on a decision by the Ukrainian government on June 12th. According to the Ministry of Defense, they are paid along with regular pay. The basis is an order from the commander of the respective unit. If several soldiers are involved in the capture, the bounty is divided proportionally among them.

According to the ministry, the new bonuses apply to all soldiers – regardless of whether they have signed a new temporary contract or are serving as part of mobilization. The introduction of the payments is part of a broader reform of the Ukrainian armed forces. According to the government, the goal is a more professionalized army with new contract models and a revised compensation system.

In the future, soldiers should be able to conclude contracts with fixed terms depending on the area of ​​operation. Depending on their status, terms of between six and 14 months are planned for infantry and assault troops, and 24 months for other combat and support units. After the agreed period of service has expired, there should generally be the possibility of ending military service.

In addition, the reform provides for further performance-related bonuses. Soldiers can receive additional compensation for certain combat missions, such as recapturing positions or offensive operations. According to the Ministry of Defense, several supplements can be combined with each other, although caps apply to individual premiums.

In addition to their military value, captured Russian soldiers are also important for Ukraine for the exchange of prisoners of war. Both warring parties have regularly exchanged prisoners since the beginning of the Russian war of aggression. It was not until the end of June that Russia and Ukraine agreed to another exchange.