Ukraine's parliament has passed a bill that would enable some prisoners to fight in the armed forces as the military faces a critical personnel shortage and Russian forces continue to advance on the battlefield.
The move on Wednesday marks a U-turn in Ukraine's approach on the matter.
Kyiv had long opposed the measure and had repeatedly criticised Moscow for mobilising prisoners to fill its ranks.
The legislation would need to be signed by the chairperson of parliament and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy before coming into force.
Among those not eligible to serve include those found guilty of sexual violence, killing two or more people, serious corruption and former high-ranking officials.
Only prisoners with under three years left to serve on their sentence may apply.
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