Ukraine releases 4,000 prisoners to bolster military ranks

Ukrainians are filling the ranks of their army. In Kyiv, a decision was made to release nearly 4,000 prisoners. Their sentences will be forgotten if they participate in indefinite national defense. Rapists and serial killers are excluded. The first convicts have just arrived in the Zaporizhzhia region, where experienced military personnel are training them.

The British publication "The Guardian" reports on a new program addressing personnel shortages in the Ukrainian armed forces. There's a significant issue with recruiting new volunteers in Kyiv. In May, a law allowing convicts to volunteer for the military was passed. In Russia, such a system has existed since at least 2022. Media reports indicate that up to 100,000 prisoners have joined.

Rapists and serial killers are excluded. Those who have committed crimes against state security will not be eligible for release. The newspaper, citing the Ukrainian Ministry of Justice, reports that 5,900 people signed up, but some were rejected for health reasons.

According to "The Guardian," 3,800 prisoners have already been released. Fifty-eight of them went to the Zaporizhzhia region, about 12 miles from the frontline, where they learned basic infantry skills, including handling weapons and recognizing mines. They received uniforms, boots, and rifles.

The British portal reports that the convicts' sentences will be erased after a year, but they must fight indefinitely. They are not entitled to the twice-yearly 15-day leave period granted to regular soldiers. As a reward for good behavior, they can meet with their families. In case of desertion, they can receive an additional 5 to 10 years in prison.

A former firefighter, Yevhenii Kostohryz, convicted of drug offenses, was also supposed to join the military. - Some of us have military experience, others none. I want to defend my home and family - he said.

According to Denis Kravchenko, who conducts training for Ukrainian convicts, the problem of a lack of recruits could be mitigated by significant raises. Currently, a soldier's salary in Ukraine is $500 per month, and $2,500 when serving on the frontline.