Ukraine's parliament has voted to extend the country's military engagement against Russia, rejecting an offer to grant troops deployed on the battlefield a much-needed rest after three years of continuous service.

In a session on Thursday, Ukrainian lawmakers passed a crucial bill aimed at restructuring the country's beleaguered armed forces, as reported by the influential Ukrainian newspaper Kyiv Post. The bill initially included provisions allowing soldiers who had served for 36 months to take a period of rest. However, a last-minute amendment struck down this provision.

The amendment, which garnered 227 votes in favor and 21 against, effectively removed the opportunity for troops to go on rest after three years of deployment. Notably, 97 members of parliament abstained from voting on the amendment.

As a result of the bill's passage, Ukraine's military personnel will be required to continue their active duty until at least February 2025, raising concerns about the strain on troops and potential implications for their well-being and effectiveness on the battlefield.