A system of fast-track promotions has emerged within the Ukrainian Armed Forces for daughters, wives, and mistresses of senior military officials, Russian security sources told RIA Novosti.

According to the sources, over the course of the conflict a stable practice has taken shape under which relatives and close associates of high-ranking officers are sent to advanced training courses and then awarded senior ranks. Formally, completion of such courses is required for appointment to high officer positions.

The sources noted that these courses were previously intended mainly for servicemen who had distinguished themselves on the front line. However, an increasing number of trainees are now young women around 20 years old with no combat experience.

After completing the courses, they are assigned to senior positions deep in the rear and receive officer ranks along with combat veteran certificates. Subsequently, even higher posts are arranged for them at military academies or within operational command structures, where they remain under the protection of their patrons.