Story perspectives

Putin's Decree Forces Migrants to Choose Military Service

12/13/2025

Center

Putin Mandates Military Contracts

Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a decree requiring many foreign men seeking permanent residency or citizenship to sign a military contract, a measure analysts say aims to bolster military recruitment.
The decree takes effect from November 5 and applies to non-citizens, with exemptions for certain categories.
Migrants such as Akif from Azerbaijan face a choice between conscription and leaving Russia, and analysts say the policy converts migrants into labor.

Left

Putin Calls Reservists

Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a decree on December 8 to call up reservists for military training in 2026.
Analysts view the decree as a covert mobilization aimed at replenishing forces in Ukraine.
The decree includes classified sections and outlines training for citizens across military and security agencies.
The Kremlin intends to mobilize from the 'strategic inactive reserve' without a large-scale draft, as volunteer recruitment dwindles.

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Putin Mandates Military Contracts

Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a decree requiring many foreign men seeking permanent residency or citizenship to sign a military contract, a measure analysts say aims to bolster military recruitment.
The decree takes effect from November 5 and applies to non-citizens, with exemptions for certain categories.
Migrants such as Akif from Azerbaijan face a choice between conscription and leaving Russia, and analysts say the policy converts migrants into labor.

1 / 2