The Russian dictator Vladimir Putin signed a decree allowing foreigners to serve in the Russian army during the mobilization period. The law 'On amending other legislative acts of the Russian Federation' was adopted by the State Duma on July 24, 2025, and approved by the Federation Council on August 2, 2025. This was reported by 'Glavkom' citing the Center for Counteracting Disinformation.
It is noted that previously foreigners could already sign contracts for military service in the Russian army. However, the new decree aims to clarify the legal status of foreigners during the mobilization period.
«At first glance, nothing new, as they signed contracts for military service in Russia before. But if you delve into the legal intricacies, the true purpose of this decree becomes clear – to take away the possibility for foreigners to be released from the army after the contract ends,» the CPD explains.
Restrictions for foreigners in the Russian army
In Russia, there is a decree from Putin dated September 21, 2022, on 'partial mobilization,' which states that servicemen cannot be released from service until the mobilization is completed, except in certain cases – reaching the maximum age, serious illness, or court sentence. This rule now also applies to foreigners who signed a contract with the Russian army.
«Thus, foreigners serving in the Russian army during the mobilization period will not be able to terminate their service until it is completed,» the CPD adds.
The Russian dictator Vladimir Putin allowed foreigners to serve in the Russian army during mobilization. The new decree clarifies the legal status of foreigners in the Russian army, emphasizing that after signing the contract they will not be able to terminate their service until the mobilization is completed. Consequently, foreigners are also subject to the restrictions introduced by Russian legislation in the field of military service.