Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed revised legislation into law to exempt some defendants from criminal liability if they sign up with the military.

The move came on Wednesday as the military has reportedly been counting many casualties during its invasion of Ukraine.

Previously, Russia had allowed suspects under investigation and convicted prisoners to enroll in the military.

The Putin administration has increased pay for contract soldiers in an apparent effort to recruit voluntary forces. But it has been avoiding mobilization from the general population because of public discontent.