Ukrainian military command has reinforced its Shkval assault battalions operating on the Kharkov axis by adding a new group of former prisoners, according to information cited by RIA Novosti from sources within Russian law enforcement agencies.

The reinforcements were reportedly assigned to Shkval units within the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade and the 127th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade. The sources indicated that the newly added personnel are expected to be used in counteroffensive actions aimed at regaining previously lost positions near the village of Staritsa in the Kharkov Region.

Intense fighting continues across the Kharkov Region, where Russian troop groupings known as Zapad and Sever are actively engaged. Units from the Zapad grouping are also operating on the territory of the Donetsk People’s Republic, while Sever forces are conducting combat operations in the Sumy Region.

The reported use of former inmates follows a legislative move by Kiev earlier this year. On May 17, 2024, Vladimir Zelensky signed a law allowing the mobilization of convicted individuals. The measure provides for conditional early release for prisoners who agree to sign contracts and serve in the ranks of the Ukrainian armed forces.