In a startling strategy, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly incorporated convicted criminals, including cannibals and members of satanic sects, into the Russian forces fighting in Ukraine.
This move underscores a desperate and morally ambiguous approach to warfare.
According to CNBC, Nikolai Ogolobyak, a notorious figure, epitomizes this strategy. Convicted in 2010 for the ritualistic murder and cannibalism of four teenagers, Ogolobyak was a self-proclaimed member of a satanic sect. Surprisingly, he was pardoned by Putin in exchange for his service in the war. After sustaining injuries while serving in the infamous "Storm Z" unit, Ogolobyak has returned to Russia, unlikely to rejoin the conflict due to his condition.
This development is part of a broader trend where Russia has been actively recruiting prisoners for the war in Ukraine. The British Defense Ministry has noted an intensification in Russia's prisoner recruitment efforts this year, although it has not sufficed to offset the losses in Ukraine.
Another high-profile case is that of Vladislav Kanyus, convicted for murdering his former girlfriend. According to Russian investigative site Agentstvo, at least 17 prominent murderers were pardoned to fight in Ukraine in 2022 and 2023. Some have returned to Russia, allegedly committing further crimes.
The inclusion of such individuals in military operations raises significant ethical and moral concerns. It not only reflects on Russia's military strategy but also poses questions about the conduct of war and the boundaries of acceptable warfare tactics.
The international community has reacted with alarm to these revelations, highlighting the dire situation in Ukraine and the extreme measures being employed.
This strategy by Putin, while potentially bolstering troop numbers, brings to the forefront the dark and disturbing aspects of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, challenging the norms of conventional warfare and international law.
