The Russian Federation has recruited up to 180,000 prisoners for the war against Ukraine, according to intelligence reports.

The Russian Federation has recruited up to 180,000 prisoners to participate in the war since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. They receive lower payments compared to other Russian military personnel.

This information was reported by RBK-Ukraine with a link to the Foreign Intelligence Service.

According to intelligence, as of November 2024, the Russian Federation has involved between 140,000 and 180,000 individuals serving sentences for crimes in Russian prisons in the Russian-Ukrainian war.

At the same time, it is known that as of 2024, there were approximately 300,000-350,000 prisoners in Russian colonies and prisons. This figure is half of what it was in 2014. The decrease is attributed to their involvement in the war.

Intelligence sources revealed that previously, prisoners received a one-time payment of $1,718 for their contracts. However, by July 2024, the amount increased to $3,524. Nevertheless, prisoners and their relatives are deprived of several payments and benefits that are granted to participants of volunteer formations. Additionally, the salaries of this category of individuals are two to four times lower than those of other occupiers.

It is worth noting that in late December 2024, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a decree abolishing one-time payments for prisoners. Those who signed contracts with the Russian military will not receive these payments.

Mobilization of Prisoners in Russia

The recruitment of prisoners in Russia has become a common practice during the war against Ukraine. Starting from mid-2022, Russian authorities, with the assistance of private military companies, particularly the Wagner Group, have engaged prisoners in combat operations, promising them amnesty, monetary payments, and other privileges.

This initiative has drawn condemnation from human rights advocates, who have highlighted violations of human rights and a lack of transparency regarding the conditions for prisoners. Many of them have died due to inadequate training, and the promised benefits often remained mere words.

We also reported that Russia is also planning to form assault units from prisoners suffering from hepatitis "B" and "C."