Russia Initiates Largest Military Draft in Over a Decade Amid Rising International Tensions
The Russian Federation has commenced its most extensive military conscription since 2011, summoning 160,000 men between the ages of 18 and 30 for mandatory service. This large-scale mobilization, scheduled to occur from April to July, aligns with President Vladimir Putin’s strategic plan to substantially expand the nation’s armed forces.
The move follows Putin’s previous declaration to increase Russia’s total military personnel to approximately 2.39 million, including raising the number of active-duty servicemembers to 1.5 million. This would require an additional 180,000 troops over the next three years.
Despite diplomatic efforts led by the United States to negotiate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, President Putin has proceeded with the military expansion. The decision also comes after reports of tensions arising from Russia’s criticisms of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and subsequent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump expressing strong disapproval of Putin’s statements.
According to Russian authorities, this conscription cycle marks the third increase in troop levels since the outset of the conflict in Ukraine. The current draft surpasses last year’s comparable recruitment by 10,000 individuals. Draftees are expected to serve for one year and will receive notifications via postal mail and the official state services platform, Gosuslugi.
Vice Admiral Vladimir Tsimlyansky, a senior official within the Russian military, emphasized that the newly conscripted individuals will not be deployed to active combat zones. In accordance with standard policy, those whose terms of conscripted service have concluded will be formally discharged.
This latest draft order reflects Russia’s ongoing efforts to reinforce its military capabilities amid prolonged geopolitical conflict and shifting international relations.
