Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a decree empowering military unit commanders to send participants in the Ukraine conflict to disciplinary detention facilities. The order, published on the official legal acts portal, was highlighted by The Moscow Times.
These changes modify the existing Disciplinary Regulations. Previously, only garrison military courts had the authority to order the arrest and confinement of service members, as noted by journalists.
Under the new decree, unit commanders now have expanded authority - they can both forward case materials to military courts regarding serious disciplinary violations and independently decide on punishments. Such disciplinary measures must be implemented within two days after completing investigative procedures.
The updated regulations classify several actions as major violations, including: using camera-equipped mobile phones with internet access in combat zones, unauthorized absence from one's unit, skipping duty without justification, and alcohol consumption.
According to The Moscow Times, Russia's Defense Ministry proposed granting commanders this disciplinary arrest authority in late 2024. The ministry argued that garrison courts are often located far from troops deployed in Ukraine, making offender transportation both operationally disruptive and financially burdensome.