Putin reduces list of crimes barring Russians from army contracts

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law on August 4 reducing the list of crimes barring Russians from signing army contracts, while serious crimes like treason and pedophilia remain disqualifying. The revised list no longer blocks people with convictions for minor or medium-severity offenses, certain weapons and explosives violations, and some military or transport crimes. Those facing serious charges such as terrorism, espionage, sabotage, extremism, pedophilia, extortion, and state treason still cannot enlist. Russia has progressively expanded recruiting from its prison population. In November 2022, mobilization was opened to most convicted felons, and in June 2023, contracts were allowed with convicts and suspects, including those on trial.