Society

Mannequins in watchtowers and 70% staff shortages: Russian prisons under strain

Alex Webber
 12.04.2026, 14:39
Russia’s prison system is coming under increasing strain since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Photo: Vlad Karkov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
Russia’s prison system is coming under increasing strain since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Photo: Vlad Karkov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Acute staff shortages are being reported despite falling prison population.