State Duma Passes Bill Protecting Foreign Fighters From Criminal Prosecution Back Home - The Moscow Times
Moscow Times
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lawmakers in Russia’s State Duma have approved a bill that would protect foreign nationals who join the Russian military from being extradited to their home countries if they face criminal charges there. The legislation aims to encourage more foreigners to enlist, particularly for service in Ukraine, by making it illegal for Russian authorities to extradite them at the request of other governments. This protection applies not only to active-duty soldiers but also to those who have already completed their military service.
The bill, which still needs approval from the upper-house Federation Council and President Vladimir Putin’s signature, comes amid concerns about foreign fighters facing legal consequences in their home countries for participating in the conflict in Ukraine. While exact numbers are unclear, thousands of foreigners from over 30 countries, including North Koreans, have been reported fighting alongside Russian forces since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began.
The move is part of a broader effort by Russia to bolster its military ranks, which has included easing citizenship requirements for foreign nationals who serve in the military. However, despite these incentives, recruitment numbers have not significantly increased. Meanwhile, Ukraine has also allowed foreign fighters to join its armed forces, including citizens from former Soviet states and Western countries like the United States.
This bill highlights the growing role of foreign fighters in the conflict and raises questions about how other nations will respond to such legal protections for soldiers involved in international wars. It underscores the complex and evolving nature of modern warfare, where national boundaries and legal frameworks are increasingly being tested.
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Originally published on Moscow Times on 2/26/2026