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Russia increasingly concerned about the war’s economic costs - ISW

Russia increasingly concerned about the war’s economic costs - ISW Photo: Russian military (Getty Images)
Author: Bohdan Babaiev

The Russian government remains concerned about the economic costs of continuing the war in Ukraine, particularly regarding payments to Russian soldiers, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

Analysts note this is evident from a bill presented by the Russian Ministry of Defense on November 22. The bill would require Russian soldiers to return one-time payments received upon signing military contracts if they commit a serious disciplinary violation or evade military service.

The ISW concluded that the Russian Ministry of Defense likely intends to use this bill to encourage better discipline among Russian service members. This is particularly relevant given that Russian soldiers have continued to publicly complain about the mistreatment they face from the Russian military leadership.

Analysts also pointed out that recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin signaled his concerns about Russia's long-term economic stability, including through cuts in payments to Russian soldiers who have been injured on the battlefield.

Previously, it was reported that Russian forces were paid about $100,000 for any injury. However, since November 14, the Russian government introduced a three-tiered system, with the compensation amount now depending on the severity of the injury.

Read more about this in RBC-Ukraine's article.