As volunteers dry up, Russia reaches deeper into its criminal underworld for new military recruits

Russia's parliament has fast-tracked a law allowing people with criminal records to enlist in the military, Meduza reports, including those with outstanding convictions or currently facing charges for crimes like gang participation, drug smuggling, and loss of classified documents. Deputy Defense Minister Viktor Goremykin says these convicts will serve in special units under increased supervision. The move comes as volunteer recruitment has stalled despite cash incentives, amid mounting talk of broader conscription once parliamentary elections conclude.

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