Putin Doubles Upfront Payments to Ukrainian War Volunteers

Russian President Vladimir Putin has increased upfront payments for volunteers joining the military to fight in Ukraine. The payment is now 400,000 roubles, and regional authorities are encouraged to match this amount. The move aims to boost military recruitment but could strain the economy.

In a significant move to bolster military recruitment efforts, Russian President Vladimir Putin has doubled the upfront payments for volunteers to fight in Ukraine. The payment for new recruits now stands at 400,000 roubles ($4,651).

The decree further recommends that regional authorities across Russia match this payment from their budgets. The additional funds are expected to motivate more citizens to sign up for military service.

While the initiative aims to attract more volunteers, experts caution that it could exacerbate existing imbalances in Russia's already overheated economy.