Digital summonses indicate Russia’s preparations for long war in Ukraine – British intelligence

This was reported by the UK Ministry of Defense.

It is noted that on April 11, the Russian parliament passed a law on establishing a unified register of persons eligible for military service. This will allow the authorities to issue summonses electronically, rather than sending letters by mail. This removes an obstacle that previously allowed some to dodge the draft.

Intelligence notes that now the conscription data is digitally linked to other government online services. In this regard, the Russian authorities are likely to restrict the rights of the draft-dodgers to employment and travel abroad.

According to intelligence sources, measures to send electronic summonses will come into effect later this year. However, they do not indicate a new wave of forced mobilisation, as Moscow is now focusing on recruiting additional volunteer troops.

"The measure is highly likely part of a longer-term approach to provide personnel as Russia anticipates a lengthy conflict in Ukraine," the intelligence notes.

• On April 11, the Russian State Duma passed the bill in both the second and third readings. The next day, it was approved by the Federation Council.

• On April 14, Russian President Vladimir Putin promptly signed the law on electronic summonses and closed the borders for those who failed to appear at the military commissariat.

• On April 15, it became known that the introduction of electronic summonses in Russia was a response to the mass emigration of Russians.