Vladimir Putin signs bill for electronic draft, sparking fears of new Ukraine call-up
- The legislation prevents Russians from avoiding physical conscription notices by staying away from their address of record
- The swift enactment of the law fuelled fears of the government initiating another wave of mobilisation, despite denials from officials
Russian President Putin on Friday signed a bill allowing authorities to issue electronic notices to draftees and reservists amid the fighting in Ukraine, sparking fears of a new wave of mobilisation.
Russia’s military service rules previously required the in-person delivery of notices to conscripts and reservists who are called up for duty. Under the new law, the notices issued by local military conscription offices will continue to be sent by mail but they would be considered valid from the moment they are put on a state portal for electronic services.
In the past, many Russians avoided the draft by staying away from their address of record. The new law closes that loophole in an apparent effort to create a tool for quickly strengthening the military ahead of a widely anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive in the coming weeks.
Recipients who fail to show up for service would be prohibited from leaving Russia, would have their driving licences suspended and would be barred from selling their apartments and other assets.
03:15
Flocks of Russians flee to avoid draft orders, while those who stay receive blessings
The bill signed into law by Putin was published on the official register of government documents.