Putin Doubles Upfront Payments for Ukrainian Volunteers

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced an increase in upfront payments for volunteers joining the military to fight in Ukraine. The move is expected to boost recruitment but may also strain the Russian economy. New recruits will receive a substantial initial payment, along with monthly wages and additional incentives for combat achievements.

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering military recruitment, Russian President Vladimir Putin has doubled upfront payments for volunteers willing to fight in Ukraine. This decision is likely to facilitate military efforts but may introduce economic imbalances.

From now on, Russians enlisting through a contract with the military will receive a hefty upfront payment of 400,000 roubles ($4,651). This decree also urges regional budgets to match the payment with an equivalent amount. Consequently, the minimum annual wage for a first-year private in what Russia terms a 'special military operation' will rise to 3.25 million roubles ($37,791).

These wage adjustments substantially increase the compensation for Muscovites and other recruits, exceeding the national average wage by several folds. While this strategy has circumvented the need for nationwide mobilization seen during the 2022 campaign, it also contributes to an economic wage spiral. Additional incentives, such as exemptions on loan interest payments, further support this recruitment drive.

(With inputs from agencies.)