Russia begins targeting migrants for military recruitment - British intelligence
Illustrative photo (Getty Images)
On July 31, the State Duma of the Russian Federation approved a legislative bill that stipulates the revocation of citizenship for naturalized citizens who fail to attend military service. The bill was co-sponsored by State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, indicating approval from the Kremlin, according to the UK Ministry of Defense.
British intelligence believes that the practical effects of the law on Russian military conscription are likely to be limited following its enactment.
However, independent Russian media continue to report on the persecution of migrants by law enforcement agencies, particularly aimed at their recruitment into the military. The new law provides an additional form of legal coercion in this regard.
This legislation should also be viewed in the context of rising anti-migrant sentiments, fueled by some members of the Russian government, especially towards individuals from Central Asia.
"This sentiment and rhetoric has notably increased since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 probably as part of an attempt to establish additional sources of government legitimacy in the face of high casualties and reductions in living standards," the British intelligence states.
Recruitment of Indians by Russia
In June, following the death of two Indians in the Russian army, New Delhi demanded the Kremlin return the recruited citizens. According to Reuters, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi insisted on the immediate release of Indians from the Russian army during his visit to Moscow.
Furthermore, Russia has sought to recruit not only Indians but also Serbs and Ukrainians residing in occupied territories.
Recent reports indicate that eight Indian citizens have been killed in the war against Ukraine.
