News|Russia-Ukraine warDrug use on Ukraine’s front lines ‘rampant among Russian troops’As the war drags into another year, a lesser-known crisis afflicts troops on both sides.

Military Substance Use: Impact and Challenges

Reports indicate that substance use among military personnel in the Russia-Ukraine conflict has increased, with both sides facing significant challenges related to drug and alcohol consumption. This situation poses operational risks and impacts the health and well-being of soldiers.

A significant number of Russian servicemen have been affected by substance use. An analysis of 133 soldiers treated at a Novosibirsk psychiatric hospital between 2022 and 2024 revealed that 61% experienced mental disorders linked to mind-altering drugs. Reports suggest that convicted soldiers, many of whom had substance abuse issues prior to the war, have contributed to the prevalence of narcotics within military ranks.

Common substances used include alcohol, cannabis, and prescription medications such as barbiturates and anti-anxiety drugs, which are readily available without prescriptions in certain areas. Stimulants like amphetamines, mephedrone, and alpha-PVP are also reportedly used to enhance alertness and endurance, although they carry significant health risks.

A survey conducted by the NGO 100% Life Rivne Network indicates that 38% of Ukrainian troops reported using amphetamines in the past three months, while two-thirds had used cannabis. Despite the legality of medical marijuana in Ukraine, the strains consumed by soldiers are reportedly more potent than those prescribed for medical use.

Opioid substitution therapy, which is legal in Ukraine, remains unavailable in the military, complicating treatment for soldiers previously enrolled in such programs. Additionally, opioids like nalbuphine are reportedly used informally as painkillers by medics, potentially leading to dependency issues.

The use of drugs and alcohol among military personnel can adversely affect operational efficiency and soldier welfare. Soldiers may resort to substance use as a coping mechanism for the stress and trauma of prolonged deployments, which have been among the longest since World War II.

In both Russia and Ukraine, drug distribution often occurs via apps with transactions made through cryptocurrency, increasing the complexity of controlling substance flow within military zones.

Recruitment Practices and Legal Implications

Both Russia and Ukraine have engaged in recruiting convicts, including those with drug-related offenses, to bolster military ranks. In Russia, this practice has been facilitated by offering pardons and early releases in exchange for military service, leading to a decrease in the prison population from 433,000 in 2023 to 308,000.

Such recruitment strategies have raised concerns about the integration of individuals with substance abuse histories into military units. Additionally, the punitive approach to drug use among soldiers varies, with some facing severe consequences, while others experience more lenient measures.

Veterans returning home may face ongoing challenges related to substance abuse and mental health conditions, such as PTSD. The combination of these issues can lead to difficulties in rehabilitation and increased risks of recidivism and violent behavior.

Effective strategies for addressing substance use in military contexts remain crucial to ensuring the health and operational readiness of soldiers, as well as their successful reintegration into civilian life post-conflict.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.