Summary

Russia faces a surge in violence linked to soldiers returning from Ukraine, including at least 242 murders and 227 serious injuries. Many attackers, recruited from prisons, had prior convictions and were pardoned to fight.

Official propaganda hails them as “heroes,” allowing some to reoffend without punishment.

Serious crimes in Russia rose nearly 10% in 2023, while military personnel convictions more than doubled in early 2024.

Sociologists warn of growing societal acceptance of violence, fueled by militarization, leniency in justice, and the romanticization of war, as victims fear reporting due to restrictive laws.