More than 10 thousand individuals who were in prisons have been mobilized for military service in the Defense Forces. This information was disclosed by the Ministry of Justice, reported by the publication NV.
Convicts who can officially be conditionally released to join the army under contract during mobilization or martial law have gained this opportunity. However, not everyone will get this chance, particularly those who committed serious crimes or have corruption-related offenses of especially serious nature.
In particular, individuals convicted of serious crimes, such as intentional murder of two or more people or for corruption offenses of especially serious nature, cannot join the Defense Forces.
The President of Ukraine signed a law on the mobilization of convicts in May 2024. This law allows the enlistment for military service of those who were imprisoned for less severe offenses.
As a result of the mobilization of convicts from prisons for military service, Ukraine can further strengthen its defense capabilities by attracting to the army those who have served sentences for less serious violations of the law. Such a step may be important in the context of enhancing the country's defense capabilities.