Russian lawmakers expand military recruitment to organized crime convicts
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Russian lawmakers approved new rules allowing convicts from 11 additional criminal articles, including organized crime and drug trafficking, to sign contracts with the Defense Ministry. The State Duma passed the bills in three readings on Wednesday, days after the government submitted them. The move expands a program that previously targeted less serious offenders.
Expanded Eligibility
The new rules add 11 articles to the list of crimes eligible for military service, including banditry, participation in organized criminal groups, drug smuggling (except by organized groups), illegal migration under aggravating circumstances, and illicit handling or theft of nuclear materials. Previously, the program covered only a narrower set of offenses. The government submitted the package on Friday, and the Duma adopted it in three readings by Wednesday.
Lawmaker Justification
Andrei Kolesnik, a member of the Duma defense committee, supported the expansion, stating that 'in Rus', shame has always been washed away with blood' and that convicts should be given a chance to 'wash away their shame.' He described potential recruits as 'shock troops' and 'the tip of the spear.' Kolesnik added that candidates would undergo a 'certain filter' and acknowledged that 'not everyone will return from there.'
What's Next
The bills now await approval by the Federation Council and the president's signature. It remains unclear how many convicts will volunteer or how the military will screen them for combat roles.
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Russian lawmakers expand military recruitment to organized crime convicts
