A presidential decree recently signed by Vladimir Putin has introduced notable changes to the regulations governing military service within the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The document, published on the official portal for legal information, outlines several key adjustments to existing procedures.
One of the significant modifications clarifies and expands the potential roles for foreign nationals serving in the Russian military. Previously, the involvement of foreign citizens was primarily stipulated for duties during states of emergency or declared martial law. The updated decree now permits their conscription and participation in tasks during periods of mobilization as well. This change broadens the circumstances under which non-citizens might be called upon for military service in Russia.
Further amendments concern the process of dismissal from service. Under the new rules, contract servicemen who may qualify for discharge based on multiple different grounds are now granted the discretion to select which specific reason they wish to formally use for their departure from military service.
However, this newfound element of choice in dismissal grounds comes with a rather pointed exception. The decree explicitly establishes inclusion in the registry of individuals designated as “foreign agents” as a mandatory and non-negotiable reason for dismissal. For those on contract service, being listed as a foreign agent effectively removes any other potential options for leaving the service, making it a compulsory ground for separation.
These regulatory updates reflect adjustments to the framework governing military personnel management in Russia, impacting recruitment conditions for foreign nationals and introducing specific criteria for dismissal, particularly concerning those deemed `foreign agents`.
