According to British intelligence services, Russian authorities are probably preparing for an expansion of the military service in order to strengthen the armed forces. On March 13, a bill was tabled in the Russian House of Commons, according to which men aged between 21 and 30 should be drafted instead of men aged between 18 and 27, the British Ministry of Defense announced on Saturday.
“The law is expected to pass and enter into force in January 2024,” he said in London. Since Soviet times, Russia recruits conscripts twice a year. “Officially, Russia continues to exclude conscripts from operations in Ukraine, although at least hundreds are likely to have been deployed – either through confusion by the authorities or after being forced to sign contracts,” the UK ministry wrote.
Higher education exemption
According to intelligence services, many 18- to 27-year-olds are currently applying for exemption from military service on the grounds that they are attending college. Authorities are now likely changing the age range to increase troop levels, the sources said. “Even as Russia continues to refrain from using conscripts in war, additional conscripts will make more professional soldiers available for combat operations.”
The British Ministry of Defense published daily updates on the course of the war since the start of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, citing intelligence information. In doing so, the British government wants to counter the Russian portrayal and keep the Allies in line. Moscow accuses London of a disinformation campaign. (apa)