Russian President Vladimir Putin expands the country’s military by nearly 170,000 troops amidst ongoing military action in Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a decree to increase the number of Russian troops by almost 170,000, bringing the total to 1.32 million. This decision comes as Moscow’s military intervention in Ukraine enters its 22nd month. The expansion marks the second increase in the army’s size since 2018 and brings the overall number of Russian military personnel to around 2.2 million. The Defense Ministry has clarified that the growth will occur gradually through the recruitment of volunteers, citing the “special military operation” in Ukraine and the expansion of NATO as reasons for bolstering the army.
1: The Rationale behind the Troop Increase
The Defense Ministry states that the increase in troops is a response to the “aggressive activities of the NATO bloc.” It highlights the buildup of NATO forces near Russia’s borders, the deployment of additional air defense systems and strike weapons, and the increased potential of NATO’s tactical nuclear forces. The ministry argues that boosting Russian troops is necessary to counter these perceived threats.
2: Changing Calculations and Shattered Expectations
Previously, the Kremlin considered the size of its military sufficient. However, the calculus changed when hopes for a quick victory over Ukraine were shattered by fierce resistance. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu previously stated that a force of 1.5 million was needed to ensure Russia’s security, without specifying a timeline for achieving that size.
3: Secrecy Surrounding Casualties
Both Russia and Ukraine have maintained secrecy regarding military casualties. The Russian military has confirmed just over 6,000 casualties, but estimates from the West suggest much higher figures. In October, the U.K. Defense Ministry tweeted an estimate of “150,000-190,000 permanent casualties” for Russia, including troops killed and permanently wounded.
4: Efforts to Strengthen the Army
To strengthen the army, Putin previously ordered an increase in the military’s size to 1.15 million in 2023. He also mobilized 300,000 reservists for deployment in Ukraine. Regional authorities formed volunteer battalions, and recruitment campaigns offering cash bonuses and amnesty to prisoners have been underway. The regular draft, which calls up around 120,000-140,000 men twice a year for compulsory service, continues alongside these efforts.
5: Conscription and Recruitment Strategies
All Russian men aged 18 to 27 are required to serve one year in the military. However, many avoid the draft due to health reasons or deferments granted to university students. The authorities have raised the upper age limit for mandatory service to 30. The Russian military conducts two drafts per year, and Putin has ordered the drafting of 130,000 conscripts in the fall and 147,000 in the spring.
Conclusion:
As the conflict in Ukraine persists, President Putin’s decision to increase Russian troops by nearly 170,000 demonstrates Moscow’s commitment to its military intervention. The expansion aims to counter what Russia perceives as aggressive activities by the NATO bloc. The secrecy surrounding casualties and ongoing efforts to strengthen the army highlight the gravity of the situation. The implications of this troop increase for the conflict in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape remain to be seen.
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