Moscow, January 4 – President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree granting Russian citizenship to foreigners who have signed a contract to serve in the Armed Forces, according to an official publication on the legal information portal. The decree states that foreign citizens who have signed a contract to serve in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation or military formations during a special military operation are eligible to apply for Russian citizenship. Foreigners who are currently serving in the Armed Forces or military formations during the special operation, as well as those who have been discharged during the same period, will also be able to obtain Russian passports. This right also extends to spouses and children of foreign military personnel.
In a move aimed at strengthening the ranks of the Russian military, President Putin has signed a decree allowing foreigners serving in the country’s Armed Forces to obtain Russian citizenship. The decree, published on the official legal information portal, highlights that foreign citizens who have signed a contract to serve in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation or military formations during a special military operation will now have the opportunity to become Russian citizens. This decision has been made in an effort to attract more individuals to join the Russian military and bolster its capabilities.
The decree further specifies that foreigners currently serving in the Armed Forces or military formations during the special operation, as well as those who have been discharged within the same period, will also be eligible to apply for Russian citizenship. This provision extends to the spouses and children of foreign military personnel, ensuring that families can remain together and enjoy the benefits of Russian citizenship.
The move comes as part of Russia’s ongoing efforts to enhance its national security and expand its military capabilities. By allowing foreign military personnel to become Russian citizens, the country aims to tap into a broader pool of talent and expertise, enriching its armed forces with diverse perspectives and skills. This is particularly significant in the context of geopolitical tensions and the need for a strong and capable military.
However, this decision has raised concerns among critics who argue that it may have broader implications. Given the current strained relations between Russia and Western countries, granting Russian citizenship to foreigners serving in the Armed Forces could be seen as a strategic move to further align these individuals with Russian interests. Critics also question the potential impact on international military alliances and the potential for these individuals to be used as leverage in geopolitical disputes.
It is important to note that this development takes place against the backdrop of ongoing tensions and conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, which has strained relations between Russia and the West. In this context, the move to grant Russian citizenship to foreign military personnel is likely to be viewed with skepticism by Western governments and seen as a further indication of Russia’s assertive and expansionist agenda.
In conclusion, President Putin’s decree granting Russian citizenship to foreigners serving in the Armed Forces reflects Russia’s desire to strengthen its military capabilities and attract skilled personnel. While this move may have practical benefits for the Russian military, it also raises concerns about geopolitical implications and potential destabilization of international alliances. The decision will undoubtedly be closely monitored by the international community, particularly in light of ongoing tensions between Russia and Western countries.
