Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree permitting foreigners to serve in the Russian military not only during states of emergency or martial law, but also during periods of mobilization, Euronews reports. This move appears to be an effort to bolster military recruitment without resorting to formal conscription.
Expanding Recruitment Efforts
To further enhance Moscow’s military recruitment drive, the Kremlin will also allow qualified specialists who have reached the age limit to sign contracts with Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), the Federal Security Service (FSB), or other state security agencies.
Until Monday, foreigners were only permitted to serve in the Russian army during emergencies or under martial law, neither of which Moscow has formally declared despite its full-scale invasion of Ukraine three and a half years ago.
Avoiding a Repeat of 2022 Exodus
Putin’s partial mobilization decree from September 2022, which led to an exodus of over 261,000 Russians, remains in effect. By allowing foreigners to serve, Russia aims to strengthen its recruitment process, especially as it intensifies its summer offensive against Ukraine, thereby potentially avoiding another widespread formal draft.
