"Chosen a quick death": in the Russian Federation prisoners from HIV are forced to go to the war in Ukraine - NYT

Journalists report that Russian mobilized prisoners, who were captured by the Armed Forces, said that the service on the front line seemed less risky than being in prison in the Russian Federation. According to a 37-year-old Timur, which was diagnosed with HIV, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison for drug trafficking. However, prison doctors have replaced antiviral drugs with ineffective drugs. The man thought that he would not last 10 years in Russian HIV prison.

According to Timur, in December he agreed to send to Ukraine for 6 months, signing a contract with Wagner PEC. In exchange for this he was promised to pardon and access to antiviral drugs. "I realized that I have either a rapid death or a slow death. I chose a quick death," Timur told reporters. He also noted that he had no military experience. Before sending to the front, he passed a two -week training. He was given Kalashnikov machine, 120 rounds, a bulletproof vest and a helmet.

Timur stated that the commanders have repeatedly threatened him with the execution if he left his position or refuses to storm the positions of the Armed Forces. The publication writes that the Timur platoon was sent to the attack under Bakhmut. Almost all of them were killed during this operation, but some of the forces of Ukraine's defense were captured. The material says that prisoners with HIV or hepatitis C are forced to publicly report their status.

Yes, they wear red or white rubber bracelets to show that they have one of these diseases. Bracelets are also designed to protect other Russian soldiers from infection if the owner is injured in the battlefield and bleeding begins. However, the unwillingness of companions or doctors can delay first aid. Journalists noted that antiviral drugs can suppress HIV for a long time that a person ceases to be contagious. Ukraine allows people with HIV to serve in hostilities to approve their commanders.

"If a person is treated and continues treatment, the virus may be uncertain, and he can serve, he can also work dangerous to others," - said Dr. Irina Dzha, a medical consultant of a group of infected HIV 100 Percent Life. The publication also writes that HIV, hepatitis C and tuberculosis, including medical and resistant strains, are widespread in Russian prisons and correctional colonies.

According to Olga Romanova, the director of the organization "Sitting", about 10% of prisoners in Russia are infected with HIV. About a third of the total number of prisoners have at least one of these three infections. Recall that in Bakhmut of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation tried to break through the defense of the border guards and lost two dozen servicemen. The fighting lasted at the near distance, and the occupiers used small arms and mortar.