Putin Expands Conditions for Draft Exemptions

President Vladimir Putin of Russia has signed a decree concerning changes to the conditions for draft exemptions. This was announced by the Kremlin's press service. Putin has broadened the criteria for draft deferments.

According to the document, "Citizens receiving their education at the appropriate level for the first time are granted exemptions from the draft while studying in full-time and part-time programs." The deferral will apply to students enrolled in state-accredited universities, colleges, research organizations, and innovative scientific and technological centers, as well as spiritual and educational organizations.

These exemptions are applicable to those pursuing their first educational qualifications. Graduate students, medical residents, and additional categories of students will also receive partial draft exemptions. Putin announced yesterday the expansion of the conditions for granting these exemptions and emphasized that those studying in the evenings will also be included.

On October 4, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu instructed the general staff to clarify deferral procedures to the commissions and military commissars as part of the partial mobilization framework. A declaration for partial mobilization was made on September 21, and the defense ministry later reported that a total of 300,000 individuals would be called up.