Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a third phase of his Time of Heroes program on Monday, expanding efforts to fast-track veterans from the war on Ukraine into government and civilian leadership positions by removing the university-degree requirement for applicants.

• Putin announced the Time of Heroes program in February 2024 to give war veterans priority for positions in government, state-owned companies and other major institutions.

The initiative is designed to: 1) entice more ambitious Russians to enlist by dangling the prospect of lucrative postwar careers; and 2) create a new governing class in Russia whose status and advancement are tied to service in Putin’s war.

The first two intakes required applicants to have experience in the war, a university degree and management experience.

• The program quickly began to reshape Russia’s political establishment: In September’s national elections, 46 war veterans won seats in the State Duma, equating to more than 10 percent of the lower chamber.

The latest phase significantly broadens eligibility:

• Applicants no longer need a university degree; a high-school education is sufficient.
• Those selected will receive three years of instruction, including 18 months at Russia’s Presidential Academy.
• Graduates will receive state-recognized diplomas, giving them the credentials needed for government positions and management jobs.

Battlefield to bureaucracy: The Kremlin is also bending rules to make it easier for veterans to advance within local governments. Last month, lawmakers introduced legislation that would count military service toward the experience requirements for municipal government positions, allowing veterans to qualify more quickly for salary increases and senior posts.

These measures are helping transform the war from a military campaign into a foundation of Russia’s political system. Veterans are being positioned not merely as heroes to be celebrated but as officials who will shape Russia’s future. Their rise binds a new generation of decision-makers to Putin’s rule, further consolidating the power of the biblically prophesied “prince of Russia” as he prepares to lead Russia in future conflicts.