Andrei Kartapolov, who chairs the State Duma Defense Committee, indicated that work on the draft law governing the status of private military companies (PMCs) continues. The discussion around this legislation remains ongoing as lawmakers assess its implications for national security and state authority. The goal, according to his remarks, is to ensure the bill receives the necessary approvals without compromising the government’s ability to manage security structures effectively. [TASS]
He emphasized that this is a complex piece of legislation that requires careful consideration and multiple rounds of consensus. Everything is progressing in line with the planned timetable, he noted, underscoring the importance of a thorough process given the sensitive nature of PMCs and their role in national defense. The intent for the bill is to establish clear, formal criteria for PMC activity and oversight, ensuring that any deployment aligns with constitutional provisions and state security interests. [TASS]
According to the deputy, the proposed framework touches on essential state functions and the safety of the population, so it cannot be treated lightly. Lawmakers are considering how to balance organizational oversight, veteran rights, and the accountability of private forces operating alongside or within the country’s armed services. The aim is to create a robust regulatory environment that reduces uncertainty for service members and for the state itself. [TASS]
In December, Sergei Sobolev, a private contractor from the Novosibirsk region who enlisted with a PMC and has sought veteran status, spoke about his hopes for recognition. He shared with socialbites.ca his expectation that the status would be clarified soon, noting that he had filed a formal request through official channels but had yet to receive confirmation. Following a direct discussion with the president, Sobolev indicated that the path to veteran recognition could soon become clearer, reflecting broader questions about veteran status within PMCs. [SocietyNote]
Reports indicate that President Putin has, over time, interacted with individuals connected to PMCs and has kept certain acquaintances informed about developments within private military groups. These personal connections appear to influence how policy discussions unfold at the highest levels, even as the government seeks to establish a consistent legal framework for PMCs that addresses both operational realities and public accountability. [Presidential Records]