Russia’s Defense Ministry is reportedly planning to recruit approximately 20,000 individuals currently held in pre-trial detention to serve in Ukraine, according to a report by investigative outlet IStories, which cited anonymous military and legal insiders.
A military official told IStories that efforts are already underway to assess which of the thousands of detainees awaiting trial may be suitable for military duty, with an estimated 40% likely to be enlisted. The plan purportedly involves selecting around 100 detainees from each of the country’s 210 pre-trial detention centers.
As of early 2024, federal prison data shows that 106,000 people were held in pre-trial detention, a figure that includes both individuals under investigation and those already convicted.
This recruitment initiative follows recent legislative amendments passed by federal lawmakers, enabling criminal defendants to serve in the military. Previously, military enlistment was restricted to convicted criminals and individuals under active police investigation. The newly amended law now requires a final vote in the Federation Council before being sent to President Vladimir Putin for approval, which is expected soon.
According to sources cited by IStories, the authorities are turning to criminal defendants in an effort to avoid the public backlash that might result from another round of mass mobilization. A source close to the General Staff revealed that the Defense Ministry is targeting this group after running out of convicted prisoners willing to volunteer for military service in the ongoing war in Ukraine.
This reported move marks the latest strategy to bolster Russian forces as the conflict in Ukraine continues.
