Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law allowing some convicts to join the armed forces fighting Russian offensives in northeast, east and south Ukraine.
Humanity has long been a problem for Kiev’s military as it battles a much larger and better equipped enemy. The problem has become more acute in recent months, prompting authorities to introduce tougher measures for those who evade the military.
The new law offers parole to convicts who sign a contract to join the military, a move that some officials said could increase the size of the military by up to 20,000 soldiers, according to Reuters.
Those convicted of the most serious crimes, such as premeditated murder of two or more people, rape and crimes against national security, are still not allowed to join the army.
Zelensky signed a law increasing fines for military evaders to up to 8,500 hryvnias ($218), according to the parliament’s website. The average monthly salary in Ukraine is about 560 dollars.
Some military analysts see the lack of manpower as Ukraine’s biggest problem. Arms shipments that have been significantly delayed, especially from Washington, are expected to reach the war fronts soon.
Ukraine has already lowered the age limit for mobilization from 27 to 25 years, while the upper limit is 60 years, Fena writes.
