Ukraine War Veterans Pose a Threat to the Kremlin. So Putin Is Bringing Them Onside.
History shows that discontent among veterans is politically dangerous. The Kremlin thinks easing their entry into politics could prevent that problem.
On the first day of Russia's State Duma following the 2026 parliamentary elections, a 20-second standing ovation was given to the newly elected "participants in the special military operation." Veterans of the war in Ukraine made up over 10% of the lower chamber of parliament. The head of the Central Electoral Commission, Ella Pamfilova, explained that these veteran members would "set a certain tone" for the new State Duma, reflecting a growing militarization of Russian politics and society.
This trend was not a result of pure electoral outcomes but was managed at the top by United Russia, which initially announced 86 veterans would be elected but later revised the number to 49. The actual final count stood at 46 across all parties, aligning with Kremlin projections. These numbers indicate a strategic political allocation instead of a purely electoral process.
The 2026 elections were part of a broader reshaping of Russia's political system. In February 2024, President Putin introduced the Time of Heroes program, aiming to integrate patriotic veterans into senior government roles and state-linked companies. Out of 83 selected participants, three became regional leaders and eleven secured jobs in the Presidential Administration.
The Kremlin has also eased the process for veterans to run in elections, leading to over 1,600 veteran candidates in 2025 municipal and regional elections. The latest Duma elections represent a step in the Kremlin's plan to systematically integrate former combatants into Russia's political system. Some newly elected United Russia deputies have been accused of war crimes in Ukraine, including killing civilians during the siege of Bucha, Mariupol, and other cities.
Despite this, the Kremlin's veteran category includes both those who fought at the front and career politicians who have acquired veteran status for professional benefits. This strategy aims to prevent the emergence of a distinct veteran bloc within Russia's political structures while systematically integrating these individuals into state institutions to bolster the regime's loyal supporters.
Written by urgent.news from The Moscow Times - Opinion's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
