In a move with potential to reshape the structure of military oversight, Federation Council member Dmitry Rogozin has proposed a bill that, if enacted, would grant volunteer commanders the powers typically reserved for investigative bodies. The legislation, reported by TASS with a link to the draft document, signals a shift in how volunteer formations within Russia might be integrated into the legal processes that govern armed forces operations.
The draft law seeks to amend paragraph 3 of part 1 of Article 40 of the Code of Criminal Procedure of the Russian Federation. Rogozin explained to the organization that assigning interrogator duties to commanders is intended to strengthen discipline within the troops and improve adherence to the rule of law. He noted that the Northern Military District has a large number of volunteer formations, with total strength in the tens of thousands of soldiers, underscoring the level of organization and potential impact such a change could have on daily routines and command accountability.
On February 5, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin visited a selection point for contract soldiers in the capital. According to the Ministry of Defense, more than 20,000 citizens passed through this point in the previous year and voiced an interest in signing contracts with the Russian Armed Forces. This turnout is framed as an indicator of robust recruitment interest and a steady supply of personnel for contracted service, reflecting ongoing efforts to sustain military strength and readiness.
The statement that the Russian Federation is not facing difficulties in replenishing the army with volunteers is presented in the discussion around these recruitment dynamics, including experiences in the Ukraine context. The broader narrative points to a continued emphasis on volunteer service as a central element of manpower strategy, alongside formalized recruitment channels and contractual commitments.
Earlier, Russia simplified the medical examination process for contract soldiers. This change aimed to streamline entry procedures and reduce barriers to joining the armed forces as professionals who commit to service under contract, aligning medical clearance with modern recruitment needs and ongoing modernization efforts within the armed forces.