Putin signs law exempting from criminal liability military personnel standing court trial

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) - ​​​​​​​Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law Wednesday that exempts individuals currently facing criminal charges from liability if they are serving in the military or have been mobilized.

According to the newly enacted law, those called up through mobilization or who sign a military contract can be exempted from criminal responsibility. The law, shared on Russia’s official government portal, also applies to individuals whose sentences have not yet taken effect.

The legislation, passed by Russia’s parliament late last month, suspends criminal proceedings against defendants during their military service, according to a statement issued on Sept. 24.

According to a corresponding statement on Sept. 24, the law stipulates that criminal proceedings against those concerned will be suspended during their military service.

“The change is being made due to the fact that current legislation does not allow concluding a military contract with defendants if their case is in court,” the statement read.