Russian President Putin’s new plan, orders to recruit 137,000 army soldiers a year [TKB World]

Russian President Vladimir Putin has taken a big decision on Thursday amid military action in Ukraine. He has ordered the Russian army to recruit 137,000 armed forces a year. Putin has given officers a target to increase the total number of Russian forces to 1.15 million (11.5 lakh) by 2023. According to the report of the news agency, this decree of Putin will be effective from January 1. However, it is not clear in the order whether the army will compulsorily recruit a larger number of soldiers or the number of soldiers who have volunteered to serve will be increased or a combination of both will strengthen the armed forces.

Orders to be achieved by 2023
Due to order of President Putin, the total number of Russian military personnel will increase to 2,039,758 in 2023. This includes 1,150,628 armed forces personnel. Earlier, at the beginning of 2018, the total strength of the Russian army was 1,902,758 and the number of armed forces was kept at 1,013,628.

Volunteer contract soldiers taking part in Ukraine war

The Kremlin has said that only volunteer contract soldiers are taking part in the “special military operation” in Ukraine. He rejected the claim that he was preparing to send troops on a large scale. Russia’s local media and non-governmental organizations say that preparations are being made to send more and more volunteers in military action in Ukraine. There has even been an offer of pardon of some prisoners for performing military duty.

It is necessary for the youth to serve one year in the army

Regional officials are also trying to increase the number of troops in the Ukraine war. For this volunteer battalions have been formed. The new draft makes it mandatory for all men in the 18-27 age group to serve one year in the army in Russia. However, a large section has also got exemption. This includes health reasons and university students. Among the people who are relieved of the rules are citizens living especially in Moscow and other major cities.

Pressure to increase the strength in the army

Military observers say the numbers could drop markedly if the operation in Ukraine continues. He has declared a target to build a 1 million strong army. Retired colonel Viktor Murakhovsky said a special message was hidden in Putin’s new order on Thursday. This includes pressure to increase the numbers in the midst of the Ukraine war. Retired Colonel Victor was talking to news outlet. He said the Kremlin would likely try to rely on volunteers.