Russia Seeks to Enlist Stateless Persons in Military Service

The Russian government has submitted a draft law to the State Duma allowing stateless persons to sign contracts for military service in the armed forces and military units. This was reported by Kommersant.

The changes were published on the official website of the lower house today, April 18. The initiative amends the 'Military Duty and Military Service' law and introduces corresponding amendments to six related federal laws. In their current versions, foreign citizens are allowed to serve in the Russian army in addition to Russian nationals.

Stateless persons are defined as individuals who do not hold Russian citizenship and have no proof of citizenship from any other country. If the law is adopted, it will come into force on the day of publication, aimed at 'taking urgent additional measures to enhance the strength of the armed forces.'