A state Duma deputy and chair of the defense committee named Andrei Kartapolov clarified the stance on reservists summoned for training camps, stating clearly that they will not be sent to participate in any active military operation abroad. The remarks, attributed to Kartapolov and reported by Interfax, aim to distinguish scheduled training activities from real combat deployments and to calm public expectations about how reservists are used during periods of national security exercises.
According to Kartapolov, these training events are routine and planned well in advance. They are not tied to any offensive campaigns, and the gatherings serve educational and organizational purposes for those who are already part of reserve forces. In his explanation, he emphasized that the purpose of the training camps is primarily to refresh skills, assess readiness, and ensure that personnel remain proficient in their duties. The deputy stressed that such sessions are independent of any current or future operation and that they remain within the framework of standard national defense practices that occur on a regular cycle.
The deputy also noted that individuals who are called to training will proceed through a retraining phase when appropriate. This retraining aims to update or refresh knowledge and procedures, ensuring that those entering or re-entering service can perform their roles effectively upon their return. After completing retraining, the reservists would then resume their civilian life and return to their families and ordinary professions, continuing to balance civilian responsibilities with any ongoing obligations related to service.
Historically, there has been public interest in whether travel abroad is possible during periods of military training. This question tends to arise whenever personnel are called away from daily routines for extended periods. While the specifics can vary based on the legal framework and the individual’s status, the general understanding is that participation in training is a duty tied to national defense, but does not automatically restrict all international travel for every participant. In practice, travel considerations are managed case by case, taking into account personal circumstances, the scope of the training, and the requirements of the reservist’s assigned role. The broader context is that the state seeks to maintain readiness while allowing a reasonable degree of personal and professional flexibility for those serving.
On a related note, Marina Sapozhnikova reminded the public of exemptions that exist within the system. Certain groups are not obliged to participate in military training. Specifically, personnel from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Russian Guard, the State Fire Service, the Federal Prison Service, and customs, along with civilian staff of the Russian Armed Forces and law enforcement officers stationed outside the country, enjoy special status. This means that their professional duties and international assignments, if any, may align differently with training obligations. The intent behind these provisions is to ensure that critical public safety and security roles continue without disruption while still preserving the overall framework of national defense commitments for others who are subject to training calls. The practical effect is that exemptions help manage workforce needs and ongoing public service during times of mobilization or routine training cycles, reflecting a balance between defense readiness and functional continuity across essential services. interfa x reported details underscore how these exemptions apply in real-world terms, illustrating how policy translates into daily decisions for personnel and agencies involved.
In summary, the contemporary approach to reservist training centers on separating planned training from actual deployment, ensuring retraining where needed, and preserving the ability of workers to return to their civilian lives after fulfilling their service obligations. It also recognizes that certain public service roles maintain different requirements or exemptions to keep essential functions operating smoothly. The overarching goal, as described by the defense committee chair, remains to uphold national defense readiness without disrupting the everyday life of ordinary citizens.