Kathrine Frich
The new decree also expands eligibility for Russia’s intelligence services.
The new decree also expands eligibility for Russia’s intelligence services.
Putin Opens Russian Army to Foreign Recruits
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing foreign nationals to serve in the Russian military during periods of mobilization.
The move comes amid ongoing efforts to bolster troop numbers without triggering mass conscription.
Mobilization Decree Still in Effect Since 2022
Putin’s partial mobilization order from September 21, 2022, technically remains in place.
Though it hasn’t been publicly active in recent months, it’s never been officially revoked. Ending it would require a formal decree specifying a clear termination date.
Previous Restrictions Loosened Amid War Demands
Previously, only during martial law or national emergencies could foreigners be recruited into Russia’s armed forces.
Despite the ongoing war in Ukraine, Russia has avoided officially declaring martial law, allowing it to maintain more flexible internal policies.
Intelligence Agencies Also Tapping Older Recruits
The new decree also expands eligibility for Russia’s intelligence services.
Specialists who have reached the legal age limit can now sign contracts with the SVR (Foreign Intelligence Service), FSB (Federal Security Service), or other state security agencies.
Quiet Expansion, Not Loud Conscription
The Kremlin is strategically widening recruitment options to avoid another wave of public backlash.
Instead of mass mobilization, it’s relying on more targeted measures, like financial incentives, looser rules, and recruiting foreign nationals or specialists.
Russia Recruiting Up to 40,000 Troops Monthly
Sources familiar with U.S. and EU intelligence say Moscow is currently enlisting around 30,000 to 40,000 new troops each month.
This pace highlights Russia’s continued efforts to maintain combat strength while minimising domestic dissent.
Largest in Over a Decade
Back on March 31, Putin signed off on a conscription order for 160,000 men, Russia’s largest draft in 14 years.
While the government insists conscripts aren’t sent into combat, watchdogs say many are pressured into “volunteering” for frontline duty.
Naturalized Migrants Facing Military Pressure
Russian authorities have also targeted migrants.
In May, the head of the Investigative Committee, Alexander Bastrykin, said 20,000 naturalized migrants were deployed to Ukraine after failing to register for military service as required.
New Law Allows Stripping Citizenship for Draft Dodgers
In 2024, Russian lawmakers passed a law empowering the state to revoke the citizenship of naturalized individuals who dodge military service.
Critics say it’s part of a broader effort to compel service among vulnerable populations with fewer rights.
