Russian authorities recently initiated their most widespread military conscription since the outbreak of Ukraine conflict, conscripting 160,000 men aged 18-30 this spring. This number dwarfs previous years, heightening anxiety among young Russians about being drawn into an extended and costly conflict. Le Monde.fr
Wikipedia
As part of their efforts to expand their military forces, the Kremlin’s plans include plans to grow active personnel to 1.5 million by 2026. In order to meet this target, authorities have instituted tighter conscription laws; summonses are now considered delivered upon being posted on state portal “Gosuslugi,” while failure to comply may incur penalties such as travel bans or restrictions on financial transactions.
Wikipedia In spite of official promises that conscripts would not be sent into combat zones, reports indicate they have been sent out onto frontlines – particularly in Kursk Oblast where many have suffered serious casualties.
Wikipedia With rising conscription, more young men are seeking ways to avoid military service and “Get Lost”, an organization in Tbilisi, Georgia has provided guidance to tens of thousands on avoiding draft duty; over 1,000 individuals were assisted with deserting through “Get Lost.”
Wikipedia mes In order to meet its recruitment targets, Russia has offered substantial financial incentives and encouraged individuals to enlist as soldiers without criminal prosecution being pursued; as a result of these measures over 440,000 soldiers enlisted by 2024; far exceeding initial targets.
However, Russia’s military’s over reliance on conscripts and volunteers with limited training has raised serious concerns regarding their effectiveness and morale. Analysts caution that using inadequately prepared troops could result in high casualty rates as well as increasing domestic unrest.
Wikipedia
As Ukraine remains at war and no end is in sight, Russia’s Kremlin’s aggressive conscription strategy could have far-reaching ramifications for Russian society; including increased resistance and potential demographic challenges in future.
