The introduction of compulsory military service in Russia began on April 1, accompanied by an official decree issued by President Vladimir Putin. The decree, published on the official portal of legal information, marks a formal start to a nationwide conscription process. The move signals a structured approach to filling military ranks and aligns with the government’s existing planning for national defense and mobilization.
According to the published plans, the military authorities intend to draft a specific cohort of 150 young men and women aged 18 to 30. The announcement outlines a defined window for recruitment, with the campaign slated to conclude on July 15. This timing sets a clear start and end to the spring conscription period, giving conscripts and their families a predictable timetable to prepare for service obligations and any associated procedural steps.
On March 31, President Putin signed a decree related to spring conscription, reinforcing the policy framework for this season. The decree underscores the state’s commitment to meeting manpower needs within the armed forces while balancing the rights and responsibilities of eligible citizens. The legal act forms the basis for the conscription process, including guidelines for selection, medical examination, and the assignment of conscripts to service units.
In the lead-up to the spring term, officials from the General Staff outlined important restrictions for conscripts. Deputy Chief of the Main Organization and Mobilization Department, Vladimir Tsimlyansky, clarified that those called to serve during this period would not be deployed to combat operations or to zones designated as special operation areas. He specifically noted that conscripts would not be sent to deployment points in regions such as Luhansk and Donetsk People’s Republics, nor to surrounding Kherson and Zaporozhye regions. The intention here is to emphasize the distinct roles of conscripts versus professional troops or volunteer forces.
Following these assurances, it was stated that the spring term of conscription would not involve participation in current military operations abroad. The clarification serves to separate the routine training and nationwide service of new recruits from ongoing conflict-related deployments, highlighting the legal and procedural boundaries governing conscription during this cycle. The emphasis remains on training, acclimation, and unit integration rather than immediate engagement in active combat zones.
In related developments, notice was given that private personnel would have access to a range of educational opportunities connected with service. Specifically, the system is set to offer examinations for a certain educational category that can be pursued by individuals starting at age 17. This aspect reflects a broader framework that ties military service to educational progression and skill development, allowing young recruits to pursue qualifications that may support both military and civilian career paths in the future.