Support Needed for Nearly 140K Returning Russian Soldiers Facing Reintegration Challenges

Nearly 140,000 Russian soldiers have transitioned back to civilian life following their participation in the conflict in Ukraine and are now in need of reintegration assistance, a Kremlin official disclosed on Thursday.

Sergei Novikov, head of the Kremlin’s Directorate for Social Projects, reported at a state-sponsored youth forum that «approximately 137,000 service members have returned from the front lines of the special military operation.»

He noted that «most of these individuals are young, primarily under 35.» According to Novikov, as cited by the TASS news agency, «They require support for retraining and securing new employment—quality jobs, not just any positions—since they are currently earning substantial salaries in the combat zone.»

While deployed in Ukraine, soldiers reportedly earn a minimum of 204,000 rubles (around $2,600) monthly.

«It is essential for them to return to civilian life in a manner that does not lead to a decrease in their household income,» Novikov emphasized.

The Russian government estimates that slightly more than half of the demobilized veterans have secured jobs and has implemented programs for job support, vocational training, and financial incentives for companies that employ veterans with disabilities.

The need for reintegration assistance has become increasingly urgent due to a noted rise in violent incidents involving returning veterans. Court records indicate that at least 378 individuals have been killed by Russian soldiers after their return to civilian life since the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.

Furthermore, according to lawmakers, the Russian Defense Ministry suggests that one in five veterans may be grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder. The country has fewer than one therapist for every 7,000 adults, with even fewer specialists available who have experience in treating combat-related trauma.