Russia intensifies army recruitment, including through threats and blackmail

Russia is intensifying army recruitment, resorting to threats and blackmail due to a shortage of volunteers. The Kremlin avoids a new mobilization but prepares infrastructure for it. Men are detained on the streets and pressured to sign contracts. The State Duma allowed contracts for those with criminal records, and Rosgvardia expands its powers. A law from November 2025 allows sending reservists without mobilization.

Russia is intensifying army recruitment, resorting to threats and blackmail as volunteers dwindle. The Kremlin is not yet considering a new large-scale mobilization despite losses and personnel shortages. According to The Guardian, authorities rely on contract soldiers to avoid political consequences. Human rights activist Alexei Tabalov notes that financial incentives no longer yield the same influx. This summer, cases of men being detained on the streets and pressured at military enlistment offices were recorded. The Kremlin has given regional authorities recruitment targets. The State Duma approved changes allowing individuals with criminal records to sign contracts during mobilization. Rosgvardia proposed expanding its powers in civil defense. A law signed by Putin in November 2025 allows sending reservists without official mobilization. ISW analysts believe Moscow is creating conditions for possible mobilization while fearing public reaction.