Russia Hands Down Lengthy Prison Sentences for Various Offenses.

Russian prisoners are now signing contracts with the country's defense ministry to fight in Ukraine for 18 months, indicating that the war may drag on for another year, according to Russian prisoners' rights activist Olga Romanova. The recruitment of prisoners to fight in Ukraine has been ongoing since February, with the period of service extended from six to 18 months. The Russian military has experienced setbacks due to a lack of ammunition, proper leadership, and troops, but has been supported by the Kremlin-backed Wagner Group. The recruitment comes amid high rates of reported casualties among Russian troops.