Amidst the establishment of new migration control points at Russian airports, authorities have begun issuing military draft summonses to arriving citizens, particularly those who are naturalized. Reports from state-run media show that individuals, not just foreign nationals, are being intercepted upon arrival and served with draft notices, even with return tickets. This practice has raised concerns about ethnic profiling, as military law experts suggest the focus is on men of non-Slavic appearance due to limited resources for checking all male passengers. Naturalized citizens face greater risks compared to native-born Russians.
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On September 29, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree mandating a military draft for the autumn of 2025, spanning October 1 to December 31. This draft will enlist 135,000 Russian citizens aged 18 to 30. Russian officials have stated that draftees will serve within Russia’s borders and will not be deployed to Ukraine. Simultaneously, Russia is contemplating a major overhaul of its conscription system, potentially implementing continuous, year-round draft procedures due to significant military losses in Ukraine.
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Ultra-Orthodox Israelis, exempt for decades from military service, are now being drafted.
Okay, so let’s unpack this, because it’s a pretty significant shift in Israeli society. For decades, a sizable portion of the ultra-Orthodox, also known as Haredi Jews, have been largely exempt from mandatory military service. This has led to a situation where a certain segment of the population shoulders a disproportionate burden of national defense while others, for religious and political reasons, have been able to avoid it. This has been a point of tension and, frankly, resentment, for a long time. You hear comments like, “One third of the population pays taxes, one third works, and one third serves in the army.… Continue reading
The statement by the ex-chief rabbi—that arresting Haredi draft dodgers would result in ultra-Orthodox Jews leaving Israel—has sparked a wide range of reactions, many of which suggest that such an exodus wouldn’t be viewed as a loss by many Israelis. The sentiment revolves around the substantial economic burden the Haredi community places on the country.
Many believe the Haredi community’s exemption from military service and their reliance on extensive government subsidies are unsustainable. A large percentage of Haredi men do not participate in the workforce, instead dedicating their time to Torah study, while receiving significant financial support from the state. This, according to many, constitutes a significant drain on the Israeli economy and creates an inequitable system where other citizens bear a disproportionate share of the tax burden.… Continue reading
Despite a purported agreement to halt attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, Russia’s spring conscription has begun, calling up 160,000 men—10,000 more than the previous year. This follows heavy Russian military losses in Ukraine, prompting a tripling of the military’s size since the invasion began. The increased draft, coupled with recruitment of contract soldiers and foreign fighters, aims to replenish forces depleted by the ongoing conflict. Simultaneously, neighboring Finland, citing increased military threats, is increasing defense spending and abandoning its commitment to the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines.
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Putin’s recent order for the conscription of 133,000 servicemen in Russia’s autumn draft brings a grim reality to light. The call for young men to join the military is not a new concept in Russia; it is a recurring event that happens every spring and autumn. However, the timing of this draft, amidst a brutal war in Ukraine, raises eyebrows and concerns about the fate of these young conscripts.
As I delve into the details, I can’t help but feel a sense of despair for the Russian youth who are being thrust into a situation where their lives are at risk for someone else’s political agenda.… Continue reading
The recent events in Israel surrounding Ultra-Orthodox Jewish protesters attacking an Israeli minister’s car amid anger at the military draft ruling make me question the underlying principles of these individuals. The irony is striking – these ultra-religious orthodox individuals vehemently advocate for the defense of Israel but refuse to be personally involved in the military draft. It is puzzling how they can so fervently promote warmongering but balk at the idea of being directly responsible for defending their own country.
Seeing these protesters resort to violence by hurling stones at law enforcement officers and Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf’s car is both disturbing and hypocritical.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood