Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin has increasingly used military service as an alternative to imprisonment.
A new investigation reveals that more than 100 former officials, legislators, and law enforcement officers have been sent to fight in Ukraine, effectively avoiding prosecution or reducing their sentences.
Corrupt Officials and Violent Criminals Among Those Deployed
According to BBC News Russian, cited by Digi24, at least 79 of those sent to the battlefield had been charged with corruption. Another 16 faced charges of violent crimes, while eight were accused of other offenses.
The group includes:
22 former mayors or municipal leaders.
10 regional or municipal legislators.
Seven former deputy governors or regional ministers.
25 former law enforcement officers.
Two former judges.
Although many officials have been given the opportunity to fight for their freedom, high-ranking federal officials remain excluded from this option. According to legal experts, this is because they "know too much" and could become a threat to the Russian government if they return as war heroes seeking revenge.
A Risky Path to Freedom
Of the 100-plus officials sent to war, 23 have returned and are now legally exempt from prosecution under Russian law. However, 17 have been killed or are missing, while 61 remain on the battlefield or have an unknown status.
Despite the dangers, the Kremlin continues to use this method to bolster its forces while managing prison overcrowding. For some, it offers a second chance; for others, it is a death sentence disguised as redemption.
