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Russia Hits Recruitment Target, Plans More Soldiers for 2026

12/27/2025

Summary

Story summary

Ukraine's military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov said Russia met its 2025 contract recruitment target of 403,000 by December and plans 409,000 in 2026.
This recruitment level allows Russia to maintain offensive operations despite heavy losses in Ukraine.
Budanov noted Russia faces recruitment challenges and has increased one-time payments to attract personnel.
Since 2022, Russia has relied on contract recruitment to avoid mass mobilization, signing about 35,000 soldiers monthly in 2025.

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Story summary

Ukraine's military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov said Russia met its 2025 contract recruitment target of 403,000 by December and plans 409,000 in 2026.
This recruitment level allows Russia to maintain offensive operations despite heavy losses in Ukraine.
Budanov noted Russia faces recruitment challenges and has increased one-time payments to attract personnel.
Since 2022, Russia has relied on contract recruitment to avoid mass mobilization, signing about 35,000 soldiers monthly in 2025.