Experts Question the Impact of Broad Mobilization on Russia’s Armed Forces
A political scientist and military analyst, Sergei Sablin, expressed concerns about how mobilizing citizens without prior military experience could affect the fighting capability of the Russian Armed Forces. In an interview with FAN, he argued that three months of training would not suffice for individuals who have never shouldered a weapon or worn a uniform. The argument centers on the reality that those with no background in the army may lack basic familiarity with equipment, drill, and soldierly disciplines, which could limit their effectiveness in combat operations. The assessment emphasizes that simply increasing numbers without ensuring adequate preparation risks producing less capable troops.
The expert pointed out that many recruits would arrive without critical exposure to firearms, discipline, or the routines of military life. He warned that expanding the pool of soldiers merely to boost manpower could lead to strategic inefficiencies and higher risks on the field. The discussion underscores the need for a careful balance between quantity and quality in any mobilization effort.
Beyond the tactical implications, Sablin highlighted moral and ethical considerations tied to compulsory service. He suggested that individuals who object to bearing arms on religious or moral grounds should be afforded protections from mobilization where appropriate. The analyst also called for a thorough psychological assessment to help determine whether a person’s moral stance is stable enough to withstand the pressures and responsibilities of military service. Such evaluations could contribute to more informed decision making about who may be mobilized and under what conditions.
Previously, the government of the Russian Federation, through its Commission on Legislative Activities, rejected a proposal to exempt individuals who have not completed their military service from partial mobilization. This decision reflects ongoing tensions between policy expediency and considerations of individual suitability and ethical implications in the deployment of reserve and non-experienced personnel.