A State Duma deputy, Ivan Sukharev, has suggested amendments to the penal code that would establish criminal liability for individuals who assist citizens in illegally avoiding military service. A copy of the letter was obtained and shared with First Deputy Prime Minister Andrey Belousov.
In the appeal, the deputy notes that Article 328 of the Criminal Code currently addresses liability for those who evade conscription for military service or for the alternative civilian service, but it does not define responsibility for those who actively help others circumvent service requirements.
The deputy points out that, with the onset of a special military operation in Ukraine and the elevation of the conscription age to 30, the online environment has seen a surge in activity where individuals and groups offer services to evade service. This activity has become more visible and widespread, prompting concern among lawmakers and the public alike.
Against this backdrop, Sukharev proposes examining the advisability of amending Article 328 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. The aim would be to clarify the responsibilities of individuals and officials who assist in the unlawful evasion of military service or the alternative civilian service, ensuring that such actions are subject to appropriate penalties.
Historically, the State Duma has also considered public demonstrations related to military matters, including proposals to display memorialized or symbolic items representing NATO equipment as a form of political expression. This context underscores ongoing debates about security, compliance, and the boundaries of protest within the country.”