Russia calls up 150,000 conscripts under stricter law

President Putin has again called up 150,000 Russians for military service. This is stated on the Kremlin’s website. Russia often forces men to fight for the country, but this time Russians between the ages of 27 and 30 must also register.

Last September, 130,000 men already received the call, the previous time Russia planned to recruit 147,000 people. There are no reliable figures on how many people actually do military service.

Escape from military service

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there have been stories of Russians trying to avoid conscription. For example, during the mobilization that Putin announced two years ago, there were many searches for “how to break an arm” on the Russian Google and many Russians tried to leave the country.

The laws regarding conscription have now been further tightened. The tightened law was quickly passed last year, something that legal experts say is contrary to the Russian constitution.

Previously, the conscript could refuse the letter, which was personally delivered to the door, by not opening the door. Now the future soldier has no way of avoiding this, because the call is delivered online.

Anyone who does not show up also risks losing their benefits or salary. The conscript is also no longer allowed to leave the country once the message arrives in the inbox. In addition, the maximum age has also been increased by three years, meaning that all men aged 18 to 30 must join the army.

Army advances

To get Russians somewhat enthusiastic, there are signs and screens throughout the country with the propaganda text: “Our job is to defend the homeland” and “Join.” Recruitment days are also regularly held in Russia for new soldiers.

In the meantime, Putin’s army continues to carry out attacks in Ukraine. Analysts expect the military to continue to slowly advance the front line in the coming months. In Putin’s annual speech this year, he said that the country is in good shape both economically and militarily.

The latest figures for Russian military deaths date from 2022. At that time, 5,937 soldiers were officially killed, although in reality the number was probably higher.