The Russian military is actively recruiting women from penitentiaries to boost its invasion in Ukraine, according to Kyiv’s military intelligence service (HUR). HUR spokesperson Andriy Yusov told Kyiv Post that female prisoners are being recruited for combat, not just support roles. They are promised financial incentives and early release in exchange for military service, with most recruits being convicts serving long sentences.
More than 100,000 Russian prisoners have reportedly been recruited to fight in Ukraine, with many women prisoners being killed or returning with serious injuries. This recruitment of female convicts is a new development, suggesting a decreasing willingness of male prisoners to serve in the military. Russian President Putin’s spokesperson previously defended using prisoners, saying they “atone with blood for crimes on the battlefield.”
Reports indicate that the Russian military has suffered over 350,000 casualties since the war began in February 2022. In response to depleted forces, Moscow has increased female recruitment for roles like doctors, nurses, and cooks. Putin has approved a law to mobilize Russian men up to 70 years old to serve in the military and fight in Ukraine, suggesting a desperate move to address the ongoing conflict.
