Britain accused Russia of recruiting migrants from Central Asia and neighboring countries to become soldiers in the war against Ukraine . “There are at least 6 million migrants from Central Asia in Russia, who are likely to be considered by the Kremlin as potential recruits,” the British Ministry of Defense said in its latest intelligence report.
Russia wants to avoid unpopular general mobilization before next year’s presidential election. “Exploiting foreign nationals allows the Kremlin to acquire additional personnel for its war effort in the face of increasing losses,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev said about 280,000 people had registered this year for professional service in the Russian military. While visiting Russia’s far eastern region, Medvedev, who is also the former Russian President, said he met with local officials to discuss efforts to strengthen the armed forces.
“According to the Ministry of Defense, since January 1, about 280,000 people have been accepted into the Armed Forces under contract, including reservists,” Medvedev was quoted as saying by state news agency TASS.
Last year Russia announced plans to increase its combat personnel by more than 30 percent to 1.5 million. This figure is considered difficult to meet because of the undisclosed number of casualties in the Russia-Ukraine war.
Some Russian lawmakers argue that Russia needs a 7 million-strong professional army to ensure the country’s security. This requires large budget allowances.
President Vladimir Putin ordered the partial mobilization of 300,000 reservists in September 2022, leading hundreds of thousands more to leave Russia to avoid being sent to fight. Putin said there was no need for further mobilization.
Source : Tempo.co
