Deputy Chairman of the Committee on National Security, Defense, and Intelligence, Yegor Chernev, has suggested that the mobilization of convicts could be a viable means of bolstering the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (ZSU).
“I personally believe that this is one of the tools that can be utilized,” he shared in a statement to RBK-Ukraine. “However, it is crucial to emphasize that it should only involve voluntary mobilization. Additionally, commanders must have the authority to recruit convicts and clearly understand with whom they are willing to work and with whom they are not.”
The lawmaker underscored his familiarity with local commanders willing to accept convicts into their units. According to him, there are convicts themselves who express a willingness to defend the country.
Advantages of mobilizing convicts:
- Increased manpower for the ZSU: This could be a significant factor during wartime, as the demand for human resources on the front lines is always high.
- Providing convicts with a chance for redemption: Military service could serve as an opportunity for them to rehabilitate and return to normal life after serving their sentences.
- Alleviating the burden on the penitentiary system: This could help address the issue of overcrowded prisons.
Risks of mobilizing convicts:
- Possibility of desertion: Convicts may take advantage of the situation to escape from the battlefield.
- Negative impact on morale: Some military personnel may view unfavorably the idea of fighting alongside individuals who have committed crimes.
- Violation of human rights: There is a risk that the rights of convicts engaged in combat may be compromised.
Whether the mobilization of convicts will truly be beneficial for the ZSU is a question that requires thorough study and discussion. It is essential to weigh all risks and advantages before making a final decision.