A human rights advocate, Alexander Ionov, recently spoke on the 360 TV channel to discuss a proposed bill that would permit specially trained military personnel to volunteer for peacekeeping duties. The legislation, which had its first reading in the State Duma, centers on enabling qualified volunteers to join international and national peacekeeping operations. The spokesperson highlighted that these volunteers would be instrumental in stabilizing conflict zones and reducing risk to civilian populations.
Ionov described the volunteers as individuals with substantial training and robust military background. He emphasized that these are people who have participated in hostilities and possess the moral resolve and determination needed to take part in peacekeeping missions. He suggested that their presence could enhance the effectiveness of peace efforts by providing experienced personnel who understand the realities on the ground.
According to Ionov, volunteers joining peacekeeping units would play a direct role in preventing civilian casualties and mitigating provocations from opposing sides. The discussion underscored the potential for volunteers to contribute to a safer environment for civilians and to support a broader strategy aimed at de-escalation and stabilization in active conflict areas.
Earlier reports from February indicated that the Russian Ministry of Defense was seeking to broaden the categories of military personnel eligible to participate in the country’s peacekeeping missions, even if this would come at the expense of conscripts. The proposal is said to have been coordinated with a wide range of security agencies and ministries, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Emergencies, the FSB, the FSO, the Foreign Intelligence Service, the National Guard, and the Presidential Special Programs Main Directorate, among others. The aim, as stated by officials, is to strengthen the pool of trained personnel available for peacekeeping tasks while maintaining oversight and coordination across the country’s security apparatus. [Citation: Ministry sources and parliamentary briefings]