Ukraine's New Law
Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law allowing the recruitment of prisoners into the military, aiming to strengthen Ukraine's forces in its ongoing war with Russia.
Prisoners released for military service will fight in separate units, though some commanders, like Dmytro Kukharchuk, prefer integrated units.
Kukharchuk, who recruits strong and motivated prisoners, stated, "When you join us, you join a family." He believes they should fight alongside regular soldiers to foster unity and effectiveness.
Commanders Weigh In
The new law allows conditional early release for prisoners who enlist. Kukharchuk emphasizes that recruited prisoners will be treated as part of the military family, with no special penal units. "It won't be easy," he said, "but when you come to us, you come to a family."
Some commanders, however, advocate for separate units with experienced leaders to maintain discipline. Nearly 100 prisoners from a central Ukrainian prison have already signed contracts to join various military units.
A Chance for Redemption
The law excludes individuals convicted of severe crimes, such as national security offenses and violent crimes. Since the law's enactment, around 5,000 prisoners have applied to join the army, with nearly 2,000 passing medical exams and being released.
Justice Minister Denys Maliuska highlights that many prisoners see this as a chance to shed the "ex-prisoner" label and rebuild their lives. "There are certainly risks," Maliuska said, "but the morale and spirit of those released from prison are much higher than those who were mobilized off the street."
Commanders recognize the risks but believe the program offers a unique opportunity for rehabilitation and patriotism, contrasting Ukraine's voluntary enlistment with Russia's forced conscription. "In Ukraine, motivation is largely based on patriotism," Maliuska added.
