Kremlin fears returning soldiers could threaten Putin's regime, intelligence report
Photo: Vladimir Putin, Russian President (Getty Images)
The Kremlin fears that the return of tens of thousands of soldiers and former prisoners from the front could pose a direct threat to the regime of Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the press service of Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service.
Russia is concerned that after the veterans return home, the country may face a situation similar to the 1990s, when soldiers returning from the Afghan war formed gangs and mafia groups.
"According to the Kremlin’s assessment, veterans could become a catalyst for criminal and political destabilization capable of shaking the system built around personal loyalty to Putin," Ukraine's intelligence said.
The problem is not only in the psychological trauma or criminal backgrounds of these soldiers, but also in the stark contrast between the high frontline payments and the low income in civilian life. Returning to low wages and a shattered economy, veterans may become a source of social unrest.
Intelligence also noted that the situation is worsened by the participation of tens of thousands of convicts in the war. Many have already returned to Russian cities, where the number of serious crimes involving them continues to rise.
Since 2023, military courts have received at least 989 cases of murder and intentional grievous bodily harm resulting in death.
The intelligence added that the return of people accustomed to violence and impunity could lead to a new internal conflict for the Kremlin. While these veterans once supported the regime, they may now become a force that weakens the country from within.
Russia's use of prisoners in war
Earlier in January, Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service reported that Russia had recruited around 180,000 prisoners to fight against Ukraine.
According to the agency, they are paid less than regular Russian soldiers.
