Russian soldiers parade through Red Square during the 2024 Victory Day celebrations. Getty Images
Russia is launching one of its biggest military recruitment drives in years. President Vladimir Putin has signed an order to enlist 160,000 men between the ages of 18 and 30. The recruitment period began on Tuesday and will continue until July 15. This is an increase of 10,000 soldiers compared to last year's spring draft.
This effort is part of Putin’s plan to grow Russia’s armed forces. Three years ago, the Russian military had one million personnel. Now, the goal is to reach 1.5 million troops. This push comes at a key moment in Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Russian forces have been making slow advances in eastern Ukraine, while North Korean troops have reportedly helped Russia defend against Ukrainian attacks.
Under Russian law, newly drafted soldiers cannot be sent to active combat zones without proper training. However, reports suggest that some conscripts have been pressured into signing contracts that place them directly on the front lines in Ukraine. Some were even caught in crossfire when Ukrainian forces launched a surprise attack in Russia’s Kursk region last year.
Meanwhile, Russian forces have intensified their attacks in Donetsk, particularly in Pokrovsk. They have also carried out airstrikes on Ukrainian cities. These developments come as the United States is attempting to negotiate an end to the war.
A senior Russian diplomat, Kirill Dmitriev, is set to visit Washington this week. He will meet with top U.S. officials, including Trump’s advisor Steve Witkoff, to discuss possible steps toward ending the war. This marks the first official Russian visit to Washington since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.
Despite diplomatic talks, tensions remain high. Putin recently rejected Trump’s call for an immediate ceasefire. He has instead set conditions, including the removal of U.S. sanctions, before agreeing to any pause in fighting in the Black Sea.
