Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 09:33am on 05 Jan 2024,Friday International
President Vladimir Putin signed an order allowing foreign nationals fighting for Russia in Ukraine to obtain expedited Russian citizenship status for themselves and family members. To qualify, they must have signed at least a one-year contract with Russia's armed forces or other military groups operating in Ukraine, such as the Wagner private mercenary force. The move seems aimed at incentivizing battle-hardened foreign recruits to join Russia's invasion effort amid reports of heavy casualties. By one U.S. estimate, nearly 90% of Russia's original invasion personnel have been killed or wounded. Putin may be looking to replenish forces as mobilization so far has fallen short, with citizen offers targeting those with desired military skills or experience.
