The Kremlin is worried about an increase in violent crimes by Russian soldiers returning from the invasion of Ukraine.
Reports from independent Russian news outlet Meduza highlight these concerns, citing unnamed Kremlin sources. Sergey Kiriyenko, Putin’s first deputy chief of staff, expressed that many soldiers are struggling to adapt to civilian life after their service.
Soldiers Struggling to Adjust
Kiriyenko addressed deputy governors this month, pointing out that many soldiers had enlisted to escape prison sentences. Upon returning home, some of these soldiers have committed serious crimes, including murder and rape.
This adjustment issue is more pronounced compared to veterans of the Soviet-Afghan war or World War II. This is because the Russian public has mostly experienced the war in Ukraine through television. This lack of direct experience means society is less prepared to understand and accept these veterans.
Russian officials are referring to soldiers returning from Ukraine as “the new Afghans,” a nod to veterans of the Soviet-Afghan war. However, there’s a growing concern that these soldiers might become disillusioned with civilian life and potentially form criminal groups. This discontent could pose significant political and social risks during Putin’s term, with the public reacting to veterans with fear and even aggression.
Potential Social Risks
The Kremlin fears that returning soldiers could become the country’s “biggest political and social risk factor.” With more than 100,000 convicts recruited from penal colonies to fight on the front lines, the return of these soldiers poses a unique challenge. Their sentences were quashed in return for their service, but their reintegration into society remains problematic.
Unlike previous wars where returning soldiers were more integrated into society, today’s veterans face a different reality. The war in Ukraine has been largely seen on TV, creating a disconnect between the soldiers’ experiences and the public’s perception. This gap makes it difficult for society to understand the challenges faced by these veterans, leading to potential social unrest.
The Kremlin’s acknowledgment of these issues is a step towards addressing the problem, but concrete solutions are needed. Programs to help veterans reintegrate into civilian life, including mental health support and employment opportunities, could mitigate some of these risks. Additionally, fostering a better understanding of the veterans’ experiences among the general public might ease tensions.
A Complex Challenge
The situation with returning soldiers from Ukraine presents a complex challenge for Russian society and the Kremlin. Addressing the potential for increased violent crimes and ensuring smooth reintegration into civilian life will be crucial. The lessons learned from this situation could also provide valuable insights for other nations dealing with similar issues.
As this issue continues to unfold, it will be important to monitor the effectiveness of any measures taken to support these veterans and address the underlying causes of their discontent.
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