Putin Signs Law Exempting Criminal Defendants Who Join Military, Including Over 20,000 Detainees

Oct 2, 2024, 10:58 AM

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law, passed by Russia's parliament, allowing criminal defendants to join the military, exempting them from criminal liability and enabling them to avoid trial. The legislation aims to bolster Russia's forces in Ukraine by recruiting approximately 40% of those currently on trial, which includes over 20,000 detainees in addition to convicted individuals. According to independent media outlet IStories, the Defense Ministry plans to enlist individuals held in pre-trial detention to address ongoing challenges in conscripting more soldiers for the war.