Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree providing for the conscription of 261,000 new recruits during 2026. This decision is part of the strategy to strengthen Russian armed forces, at a time when Moscow maintains high rates of personnel replacement due to its involvement in the war in Ukraine and the general militarization of the economy and society.
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Meanwhile, Russia traditionally follows two conscription cycles each year, in spring and autumn. In recent years, however, the number of conscripts has been steadily increasing, reflecting increased operational needs and losses on the front.
Putin’s signing of the decree confirms that the Kremlin is planning with a long-term horizon, considering the continuation of military involvement through 2026 as a given.
