Russia
Russia has embarked on testing a new digital military draft system through a recently launched website, which aims to modernize and streamline the conscription process.
This initiative is anticipated to significantly impact the ability of men subject to the draft to leave the country, particularly in anticipation of a planned call-up later this fall.
In a move signed into law by President Vladimir Putin last year, the new digital system is designed to address draft evasion issues.
Under the updated regulations, once a draft notice is posted on the new website, it is considered officially received by the individual, eliminating the need for in-person delivery. The responsibility now falls on individuals to regularly check their status on the dedicated online portal.
The new system’s implementation was widely regarded as a strategy to curb draft dodging. Previously, draft notices were delivered manually, making it easier for some to avoid service.
The website, which was initially slated to launch in three regions on Sunday, faced a delay in its rollout for reasons not publicly explained.
On Wednesday, independent broadcaster TV Rain reported that the website is now operational. The system is currently being tested in the Ryazan and Sakhalin regions, along with the republic of Mari El.
According to the website’s guidelines, once a draft notice is registered, citizens subject to military service are prohibited from leaving Russia from that date onward.
Additionally, men who do not report for service within 20 days after receiving an online summons will face various restrictions. These include bans on driving, applying for loans, and registering a business, which are designed to enforce compliance.
The website is set for a nationwide launch on November 1, following a decree issued by the Russian government earlier this year.
This development comes in response to the inefficiencies exposed during the “partial” mobilization of approximately 300,000 reservists in 2022.
That mobilization led to significant problems in military recruitment and triggered a large-scale exodus of Russians.
Although the Kremlin has stated that it does not plan another mobilization drive, the recent expansion of the age range for compulsory military service to 18-30 reflects ongoing concerns about manpower shortages in Ukraine.
This expansion, effective starting this year, underscores the Russian government’s efforts to bolster its military capabilities amid the ongoing conflict.
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