16.10.2026 11:01
Russia is preparing for a new wave of mobilization to meet the growing need for soldiers in the war in Ukraine. Indebted men, the unemployed, and university students who fail their courses may be forcibly drafted into the army.
It has been claimed that Russia may resort to new methods to meet its need for soldiers in the war it is waging in Ukraine. In an analysis published by the British magazine The Economist, it was stated that the Moscow administration could target men in economically and socially vulnerable situations instead of declaring a large-scale mobilization. The claim that debtors, the unemployed, and university students who have failed in their education could be forced to sign military contracts drew attention.
DEBTORS AND THE UNEMPLOYED TARGETED
In the analysis, it was stated that the Russian army could turn to men experiencing economic difficulties to find new soldiers. It was claimed that especially those struggling to pay their debts and the unemployed could face pressure to sign military contracts.
It is assessed that with this method, the Kremlin may aim to meet the need for soldiers at the front while avoiding declaring a new mandatory mobilization that could trigger a reaction across society.
MILITARY PRESSURE ON STUDENTS FAILING THEIR COURSES
One of the most striking parts of the analysis was the claims regarding university students. It was reported that there were news reports suggesting that male students who failed their courses and had difficulty continuing their education were offered to join the army in exchange for being able to continue their studies.
It is stated that if this practice becomes widespread, young people experiencing problems in their education could also become targets of recruitment activities.
ALLEGATION OF FORCIBLE RECRUITMENT FROM THE STREETS
The analysis also included claims that plainclothes officials in Russia's city of Penza detained men on the street. It was reported that these incidents caused protests in the region.
These claims regarding recruitment methods increased concerns that a new wave of mobilization could begin in the country.
RUSSIAN MEN ARE FLEEING THE COUNTRY
The possibility of a new mobilization led to an increase in the number of people leaving Russia. It was stated that on August 18, approximately 20,000 people crossed from Russia into Georgia by road, and this figure reached about three times the normal daily crossings.
In Armenia, it was reported that rental housing prices have increased by 30 to 50 percent since spring due to intense demand from Russian citizens.
HE FLED TO ISTANBUL
The report also included the story of 35-year-old Dmitry, who works in the advertising sector in Moscow. It was stated that Dmitry went directly to the airport after voting on September 18 and flew to Istanbul.
It was noted that applications to organizations providing support against compulsory military service in Russia have also increased. While one organization saw a 50 percent increase in requests for help compared to spring, applications to another organization that supports those who want to leave the country have reportedly increased eightfold since July.
KREMLIN DENIES MOBILIZATION CLAIMS
While Ukrainian officials claim that Russia could launch a new mobilization involving at least 100,000 people, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke of a recruitment of 300,000 soldiers.
The Kremlin, however, denies claims that a new mobilization is planned. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the partial mobilization decision announced in Russia in September 2022 has not been officially revoked.