"Blood to wash away the shame": Putin opens military doors to even worse criminals

Primorske noviceIndependentCenter5 hr. ago

The article reports that nearly 16,000 foreign volunteers from 72 countries are serving in the Ukrainian military, according to Olga Rešetilova, a human rights defender in the Ukrainian armed forces. Approximately 40% of these volunteers come from Latin American countries. Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stated that the armed forces have around 880,000 personnel. Despite the war entering its fifth year, the Ministry of Defense had previously planned to increase the proportion of foreign recruits by 50% in infantry and assault units. Kyiv offers an average monthly salary of about 5,800 euros to attract volunteers worldwide. Shortly after Russia’s invasion in 2022, Ukraine established an international legion and began recruiting foreigners, some of whom fight on the Russian side.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the number of foreign volunteers in the Ukrainian military, their origins, and the government's efforts to recruit them. It does not take a clear ideological stance or frame the issue in a particularly left or right-leaning manner. The focus is on the U

DnevnikIndependent🔒Progressive8 hr. ago

The article discusses Russia's decision to allow individuals convicted of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, weapons trade, and violations related to nuclear materials, to enlist in the military as a response to significant personnel losses on the front lines. This move, authorized by President Vladimir Putin through new regulations, aims to replenish the ranks of the armed forces. The measure has sparked debate, with some lawmakers like Andrej Kolesnik supporting it as a chance for these individuals to 'wipe their shame' by serving in the military. However, certain categories of offenders, such as those involved in sexual crimes against minors or specific terrorist-related offenses, remain excluded. The article cites reports from independent media outlets like The Moscow Times and Finnish publication Iltalehti, highlighting the controversial nature of this policy.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the policy as a necessary and justified response to military shortages, emphasizing the moral dimension of allowing convicts to serve. It highlights support from a lawmaker and mentions the exclusion of certain criminals, which could be seen as a critique of the current justice or