Vladimir Putin signs new law banning conscripts from fleeing Russia

The issue of replenishing troop numbers has become a concern for both Ukraine and Russia as they each prepare for upcoming spring offensives.

A Russian conscript looks at documents outside of a local enlistment office during a recruitment drive for the spring 2023 military campaign. Source: AAP / Sergei Malgavko

Battle for Bakhmut raging in eastern Ukraine has depleted ranks on both sides.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has rushed through a law to boost the country’s conscription program, making it harder for potential recruits to evade signing up.

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