Young Transnistrians to serve less in army

The Transnistrian government considers reducing the term of compulsory service in the army from 1.5 to 1 year, Info-Prim Neo's correspondent in the area reports. The chairwoman of a legislature committee, Galina Antyufeeva, believes that the authorities may not insure the recruitment of the necessary number of soldiers, if the initiative turns into law. “No doubt the list of young men spared from the military service could be reviewed,” she said. Now, the young men caring for children below 3 are spared from serving. In Russia, this provision was replaced by paying allowances to young families. However, because of lack of money, this provision is going to be kept in Transnistria. The death of two recruits last December and January stirred questions as to the safety of serving in the Transnistrian army. The dead young men's parents blame the violent treatment the recruits were subjected to. The officials reject the accusations. Now, for example, against Unit 30652, based in Rabnita, a series of law suits have been filed implying high-rank officers. The probe has established officers allowed the recruits to go home against bribes. Impelling soldiers to work at large plants in the area is also searched. The top officers are said to have received vacation tickets and goods from company managers instead. According to the Tiraspol-based health ministry, only 2 from 10 recruits are considered fit to serve. Last spring they recruited 700 soldiers, while last fall -- 500 youths.