Russian President Vladimir Putin has enacted legislation granting debt relief to new recruits joining the military to serve in Ukraine, as confirmed by a government website on Saturday.
Reports indicate that the law permits the cancellation of debt arrears up to 10 million roubles (£77,000) for individuals signing contracts with the Defence Ministry to serve in Ukraine for a minimum of one year, starting from 1 December.
To boost military enlistment, Russia has been offering significantly increased financial incentives, often far exceeding the national average income, to those willing to participate in the conflict.
The strategy has enabled a rise in troop numbers in the combat zone without the need for another general mobilisation, which in September 2022 led to widespread emigration from Russia.
Meanwhile, central bank data reveals a sharp rise in consumer borrowing since the Kremlin’s military campaign began in 2022, despite an increase in the central bank’s interest rate to 21% in October.
Read next
12:08
Russian President Vladimir Putin described the first use of the Oreshnik hypersonic missile as a successful test and said more will follow. He added that he had plenty in stock to use. His comment came after the U.S. said Putin only had a dozen of the weapons.
11:39
Russia provided North Korea with missiles and military aid in exchange for deploying 10,900 troops to support its war in Ukraine, some of whom have reportedly engaged in combat, according to South Korean officials.
11:34
A Russian drone attack on Sumy, Ukraine, early Friday killed two and injured 12, damaging buildings and vehicles. This follows recent deadly attacks, including a missile strike on Sunday that killed 11 and caused power outages.
10:49
President Biden approved Ukraine’s use of U.S. missiles deep in Russia after North Korean troops entered the war and Trump’s election win raised fears of reduced U.S. support. The move aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense and counter Russian escalations in Kursk and beyond.
09:03
President Putin warned the Ukraine war is escalating into a global conflict, blaming the US and UK for supplying weapons to Ukraine. He threatened further retaliation and emphasized Russia's readiness to respond to Western provocations.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment