On September 16, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree to increase the size of the Russian military by 180,000 personnel, bringing the total number to 1.5 million. This decision, which will take effect in December 2024, highlights Russia‘s determination to continue its military efforts despite facing significant challenges. The move to add 180,000 troops raises concerns about the sustainability of Russia’s military ambitions and potential implications for regional stability and global security.
According to reports from the British Ministry of Defense and military intelligence agency, this is the third decree signed by Putin to expand the Russian military since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It is clear that Russia has a long-standing goal of increasing its military capabilities. In fact, in December 2022, then-Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu called for the Russian forces to be enlarged to 1.5 million.
It is likely that the majority of the additional 180,000 personnel will be added to the ground forces, as stated by British military intelligence. However, they also point out that Russia’s ability to achieve this goal may be hindered by the heavy losses sustained in the ongoing war against Ukraine and recruitment challenges.
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com