Putin orders largest fall draft since 2016, calls up 135,000 for compulsory service amid mounting tensions
By willowt // 2025-10-02
Copy
 
  • Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree to draft 135,000 men between the ages of 18 and 30 into mandatory military service.
  • This is the largest autumn conscription since 2016, reflecting increased tensions with NATO.
  • Putin’s move follows threats from Russian diplomats and counter-threats from NATO, particularly the U.S., under President Donald Trump.
  • Washington is considering providing Ukraine with Tomahawk cruise missiles to bolster its defense capabilities.
  • The Russian parliament is considering a bill that would implement year-round conscription, expanding military drafts.
Russian President Vladimir Putin recently signed a decree ordering the conscription of 135,000 men into the military, marking the largest autumn draft since 2016. This move comes as tensions between Russia and NATO escalate, with both sides stepping up military rhetoric and preparations. The draft, set to run from October 1 to December 31, is part of Russia’s biannual conscription cycle and is aimed at bolstering the Russian armed forces, which are currently stretched from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered an expanded draft, calling up 135,000 men between the ages of 18 and 30 as part of the autumn conscription that began on October 1, 2025, and is set to conclude on December 31. The decree follows a significant increase in conscription since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, with the 2025 spring draft calling up 160,000 men—the highest intake since 2011. While officials emphasize that these conscripts will remain within Russian territory and not be deployed to the frontlines in Ukraine, independent reports suggest otherwise, noting the potential for increased pressure on conscripts to sign extended contracts that could send them to the conflict. Putin's decree is a response to the prolonged nature of the conflict in Ukraine and the potential for further escalations with NATO, especially as NATO allies, including the U.S., consider providing advanced weaponry to Ukraine. The autumn draft is part of a broader military expansion strategy, with Putin aiming to increase the size of the Russian military to 1.5 million active personnel by 2026. The conscription takes place across Russia, following the country's biannual military recruitment cycle. This move signals Russia's intent to bolster its military posture in the face of geopolitical tensions and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Tensions escalate: NATO and Russian rhetoric heat up

The recent conscription announcement has been accompanied by a heightened rhetoric from both Russia and NATO, each side seeking to beef up their military capabilities. Russian ambassador to France, Alexey Meshkov, warned that NATO shooting down Russian aircraft in allied airspace could lead to a war. This followed President Donald Trump’s statement at the United Nations General Assembly, where he indicated that NATO should fire on Russian planes if they violate airspace. Inside Russia, the news of the draft has sparked mixed reactions. While some officials emphasize the need for a stronger military, others have expressed concerns about the potential for conscripts to be deployed in Ukraine. Russian officials have reassured citizens that drafted conscripts will not be sent to the frontlines. However, reports suggest that pressure is mounting on conscripts to sign contracts that could lead to deployment.

Washington weighs in: Arms transfers to Ukraine

Amid the escalating tensions, the U.S. is considering providing Ukraine with advanced weaponry, including Tomahawk cruise missiles. Vice President JD Vance recently stated that Washington is discussing whether to approve the sale of these missiles to Ukraine. The missiles would be purchased by European allies to ensure that NATO nations are directly invested in bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities. This move by the U.S. comes as part of a broader strategy to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. Despite the official Russian stance that conscripts will not be deployed in Ukraine, there is growing concern that the ongoing war and increased conscription could further strain already stressed military resources.

Year-round conscription: A new era for Russian military recruitment

Beyond the immediate autumn draft, Russia’s parliament is considering a significant shift in military recruitment practices. The proposed bill would implement year-round conscription, replacing the biannual spring and autumn drafts. If adopted, this change would allow for a more flexible and continuous system of military recruitment, potentially catering to Russia’s ongoing military needs. The bill passed its first reading in September and, if approved, would take effect in early 2026. This move highlights the Kremlin’s commitment to expanding and modernizing its military in light of prolonged conflicts and increasing tensions with NATO. The shift to year-round conscription signals a more strategic approach to maintaining a sizable and well-equipped military force, essential in a geopolitical climate marked by frequent military escalations and the potential for broader conflicts.

A new era of military expansion and tensions

As Russia moves forward with its largest autumn draft in nearly a decade, the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve with heightened military tensions between Russia and NATO. The decision to call up 135,000 conscripts reflects a broader strategy to expand and strengthen the Russian military, both in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and in anticipation of further escalations with NATO. The shift towards year-round conscription underscores Russia’s commitment to maintaining a robust and flexible military posture. As global powers continue to jockey for influence, the transparent and accurate reporting of these developments remains crucial to understanding the complex and evolving nature of international security. Sources for this article include: YourNews.com KyivIndependent.com TheMoscowTimes.com
Copy