Russian citizens facing felony charges now have the option to enlist in the military under specific circumstances to avoid trial and the risk of imprisonment, thanks to recent amendments signed into law by President Vladimir Putin. Defendants called up for military service during a mobilization or who voluntarily enlist during wartime may have criminal proceedings against them halted, allowing them to be released from jail or placed under house arrest.
The changes to Article 238 of the procedural code provide the grounds for criminal prosecution to be suspended or terminated if the individual enlists through either conscription or a contractual agreement during mobilization, martial law, or wartime. This move aims to give those who have committed socially dangerous acts a chance to atone for their deeds by serving their country.
Russia lifted the ban on citizens with criminal records enlisting or being drafted into military service during mobilization or martial law, except for those convicted of serious crimes like terrorism or armed rebellion. The country has seen a surge in military enlistments, with 200,000 people joining in 2024, while Ukraine has faced challenges in recruiting troops, despite recent changes in enlistment rules.