Police Arrest Andrey Perlov on Charges of Embezzlement
At 06:45 on March 28, police arrived at the home of Andrey Perlov, a former managing director of a Novosibirsk football club, accusing him of stealing 3 million roubles. Perlov, an Olympic gold medalist from 1992, denies the charges alongside his family.
Detained and Pressured to Join the War
Perlov, 62, has been detained for over six months, with his family alleging he is being pressured to fight in Ukraine in exchange for the embezzlement case against him being dropped.
Legal Changes: Fight in Ukraine or Face Trial
A new law, passed in March 2024, gives people accused of crimes the option to join the war instead of facing trial. This shift in recruitment has expanded beyond convicted criminals to include those awaiting trial. Cases are often closed at the end of the war for those who agree to fight.
Widespread Pressure on Detainees
Three Russian lawyers confirmed that this practice is becoming common. In one case, a teenager, Yaroslav Lipavsky, signed up to avoid prosecution and died just a week later in Ukraine.
Broader Recruitment Efforts and Rising Death Toll
The Wagner Group and Russia’s Ministry of Defence have adapted their recruitment strategies, enlisting prisoners and people awaiting trial to replenish forces. Wagner alone recruited 50,000 inmates, losing up to 200 per day at one point.
Family of Perlov Fights Back
Perlov’s family remains determined to prove his innocence, despite the immense pressure he faces. After refusing to sign a contract to join the military, he has been sent to a strict punishment cell and forbidden from contacting his family.
The Impact of Russia’s New Recruitment Strategy
The Kremlin’s strategy reflects its need to reinforce troops, targeting accused individuals who are pressured to join, with many hoping to avoid prison. However, the risks and ethical concerns remain high, with detainees like Perlov continuing to resist.
