Ukraine creates new units with former common prisoners
Ukraine is going through a difficult time since the beginning of the Russian invasion. With the aim of strengthening its armed forces, the Minister of Justice of Ukraine, Denis Maliuska, has announced that new units will be created exclusively made up of former common prisoners released. These prisoners have signed contracts to join the army and will be deployed to the front line. This decision aims to avoid the mixing of convicts and ordinary soldiers. However, the minister has left open the possibility of reconsidering this decision in the future.
A large number of common prisoners join the army
According to Minister Maliuska, Ukrainian courts have already approved requests to sign contracts with the army by more than 5,000 common prisoners. These prisoners have requested to be released before the full completion of their sentence to join the armed forces. In addition, the Ministry of Justice estimates that between 15,000 and 20,000 common prisoners have the right to take advantage of this option. However, the new legislation excludes those convicted of serious crimes such as multiple murder, rape or political corruption (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
Ukraine asks for support to use Western weapons
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has urged Western countries to allow Ukraine to use the weapons provided to it to defend itself against Russian aggression. Stoltenberg argues that if Ukraine is not allowed to attack military targets on Russian territory, the invaded country finds itself with its hands tied. This would mean a restriction on Ukraine’s self-defense. The NATO Secretary General has stressed the importance of lifting some of the existing restrictions to ensure Ukraine’s security.