Putin Cancels Debts For New Russian Army Recruits

MOSCOW: (Web Desk) – Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree offering major financial relief to new military recruits, canceling debts of up to 10 million rubles (approximately $139,000) as Moscow continues efforts to encourage enlistment for the war in Ukraine.

According to the Kremlin, the policy applies to Russian citizens who sign army contracts after May 1 of this year, along with their spouses. The debt exemption is part of a broader set of incentives aimed at boosting recruitment for military service.

The decree requires recruits to commit to a minimum one-year contract in support of what Russia officially calls the “special military operation” in Ukraine. The measure is seen as another step in expanding economic and social benefits for soldiers participating in the conflict.

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For more than four years, Russia has relied on a combination of high salaries, bonuses, and financial incentives to attract volunteers for its ongoing war effort. The new debt relief initiative adds to these measures as the government prioritizes military funding amid continued conflict.

The Russian economy has largely shifted toward a wartime footing, with significant resources directed toward defense and military operations. Civilian sectors have increasingly taken a secondary role as state spending focuses on sustaining the war effort.

Vladimir Putin has also promoted the social reintegration of returning war veterans, encouraging their placement in influential roles within government and public institutions as part of post-service support policies.