Ukraine’s parliament has voted in favor of a measure that allows for the military mobilization of some prisoners in exchange for parole.
More than 26 months after the start of the Russian invasion, Ukraine is trying to make up for the lack of soldiers that some military analysts consider to be the biggest challenge for Kiev in the fight against a much larger enemy.
The new measure is expected to strengthen the armed forces by only a few of the total of 20,000 prisoners, said representative David Arakhamia, reports Reuters.
It does not apply to those who have committed the most serious crimes – convicted of premeditated murder of two or more persons, rape, sexual violence, crimes against national security and serious corruption crimes.
“It is no secret that the mobilization potential of our enemy is huge, therefore we must use all available solutions in order to fight like armed aggression,” it is stated in the note accompanying the adopted measure.
“Part of those people are motivated patriotic citizens who are ready to redeem themselves in front of society on the battlefield.”
Last month, Ukraine lowered the age of mobilization from 27 to 25 and changed the rules of recruiting civilians into the army to strengthen it and rotate soldiers.
The government has also temporarily suspended consular services for able-bodied men living abroad, complaining that they are not helping their struggling country.
