https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/05/04/russia-prisons-recruits-criminals-ukraine/

Summary of the Report:

A Washington Post investigation reveals the growing crisis in Russia, where violent criminals are being pardoned if they agree to fight in the war in Ukraine — and many of them return home to commit new crimes, often even more brutal than before.

Key Points:

Violent Criminals Sent to War: Under President Vladimir Putin’s wartime policies, even convicted murderers, rapists, and other serious offenders are being released from prison to serve in the military. If they survive, they are often pardoned and allowed to return home.

Surge in Post-War Violence: Independent research estimates that at least 754 Russians have been harmed by returning soldiers, including 196 murders. The actual number is likely higher. Many returning soldiers suffer from PTSD and act out violently.

High-Profile Cases:

Kirill Cheplygin allegedly killed his ex-wife and her partner in Achinsk. While in jail, he applied to fight in Ukraine to avoid a sentence. Locals fear he could return and seek revenge.
Vladislav Kanyus, who brutally murdered his ex-girlfriend, served less than a year before being sent to war and pardoned — his victim’s family now lives in fear.
Viktor Savvinov, a pardoned murderer, killed two more people, including a respected teacher, shortly after returning.
Nikolai Ogolobyak, a convicted cannibal, was also released to fight, then reoffended upon returning.

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