Money still main motivator for Russians joining the military — UK intelligence
Financial compensation, in the form of salaries and additional benefits, is the main factor driving Russians to enlist in the Russian Armed Forces, an Aug. 29 UK intelligence report states.
This is especially true for individuals from economically disadvantaged areas, UK intelligence said.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, military service in the Russian Armed Forces has become “increasingly lucrative,” the report said.
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin announced on Feb. 4, 2022 that lieutenants would receive a monthly salary of RUR 81,200 (equivalent to $850), with a commitment to increase conscripted privates’ earnings to RUR 195,000 ($2,000) by October 2022.
Numerous junior officers deployed in Ukraine are currently earning over RUR 200,000 per month. This is more than 2.7 times the average salary in Russia of RUR 72,851 ($765). Russia’s pursuit of voluntary recruitment has limitations though.
In an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Kyrylo Budanov, the Chief of Intelligence for the Ukrainian military, noted that Russia is contemplating the mobilization of an additional 450,000 individuals. Russia revised its conscription law to raise the draft age from 27 to 30 on July 25.
Read also: 500 Russian occupiers plus tanks, drones eliminated over past 24 hours
Russia, due to setbacks in their invasion of Ukraine, might intend to enlist another 400,000 contract soldiers. Russian losses in Ukraine are approaching 257,000.
We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!
Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
