The Russian State Duma passed a bill allowing the recruitment of not only convicted criminals or those under investigation but also over 20,000 defendants whose cases are currently being heard in court for the war against Ukraine, reports Vazhnye Istorii (Important Stories), citing sources close to the process.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said that Russia had around 500,000 troops positioned in Ukraine and near its borders, with plans to increase this number by an additional 200,000-300,000.
According to two lawyers interviewed by the publication, although President Putin has not yet signed the law, Russian pre-trial detention centers have already begun preparing to “unleash” defendants.
A recruitment source in the Ministry of Defense said that of approximately 60,000 defendants, 40% are expected to be taken.
The report suggests that about 100 defendants could be taken from each pre-trial detention center. With 210 detention facilities operating in Russia, this could result in over 20,000 individuals being sent to war.
“The decision to send defendants to the special military operation indicates that the influx of prisoners is running out, it’s not the same as before,” a source close to the General Staff told Vazhnye Istorii.
The legislation, as reported, would allow for the recruitment of individuals whose cases are still being heard in court. It would reportedly expand the pool of potential soldiers beyond those already convicted or under investigation.
The publication also notes that investigators and operatives will reportedly receive bonuses for persuading individuals under investigation to sign military contracts.
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