Thousands of former prisoners in Ukraine have been given the chance to swap their time behind bars for service in the Ukrainian army as the conflict with Russia continues. The new law allows for around 3,000 prisoners to be released to join the frontlines, in an effort to boost the fighting power of the Ukrainian military. This move comes as over 30,000 Ukrainian troops have been killed in the war over the past two and a half years, and military leaders believe that the motivation of these former prisoners could make them valuable new recruits. They are considered to be highly motivated and could bring a fresh perspective to the battlefield, helping to strengthen the army.
One of the ex-convicts who has joined the military is ‘Psycho’, a special forces soldier who sees this opportunity as a chance to clear his name, start a new life, and help those in need on the frontlines. Each former prisoner participating in the program is treated in accordance with the Armed Forces’ regulations and supervised by the Military Law Enforcement Service representatives. These new recruits are undergoing training at various locations across Ukraine, with one group being part of the 57th Motorised Infantry Brigade in the Kharkiv Oblast. After completing 40 days of training and coordination, they will join the rest of the battalion and continue to serve their country in the ongoing conflict.
For many of these ex-convicts, the chance to join the army and fight for their country represents an opportunity to make a positive change in their lives. They see themselves as fighters and believe that the military can provide them with the purpose and direction they may have been lacking in civilian life. One special forces soldier with the call sign ‘Snake’ expresses his desire to fight and his belief that he has found himself in the army. This sentiment is echoed by a deputy commander who believes that these former prisoners have the potential to actively shape their futures and should be treated as valued members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The recruitment of former prisoners into the Ukrainian army comes at a time when the country is facing ongoing conflict and the need for more trained soldiers on the frontlines. The law allowing for the release of these prisoners was approved by parliament in a mobilisation bill that took effect in June, and military leaders are optimistic about the impact it could have on the fighting power of the Ukrainian army. By enlisting motivated ex-convicts who are eager to defend their country, the military hopes to strengthen its ranks and continue the fight against Russia in the war-torn region.
Despite some concerns about the type of crimes committed by these former prisoners, only those convicted of specific serious offenses are ineligible to participate in the program. Many of the participants have been sentenced for crimes like robbery but have shown a willingness to serve in the military and support their fellow soldiers on the battlefield. This new initiative is seen as a way to give these individuals a second chance at life and an opportunity to contribute to their country in a meaningful way. The former prisoners are undergoing rigorous training and supervision to ensure that they are prepared to join the fight and serve alongside their comrades in the ongoing conflict.
