By: Misty Severi
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/author/misty-severi
Russian forces are likely preparing for a larger military conscription amid its war in Ukraine, after Russia's parliament introduced a bill that raises the age of service from 18-27, to 21-30, intelligence from the United Kingdom claimed.
In a defense update, British intelligence officials reported on Saturday that the legislation is likely to pass parliament and will go into effect in January. However, the aging out increase would go into effect immediately. Raising the minimum age to serve would rise slightly through 2026.
Young men in Russia often exempt conscription into the military to pursue higher education. However, raising the age requirement means that men will now likely serve at some point. Although the men are not supposed to fight in Ukraine, British intelligence said it believes hundreds are fighting anyways because of "mismanagement."
Another way Russia can send troops to fight in the war is by sending them to the four territories, such as Crimea, that have been annexed from Ukraine, the Moscow Times reported. Russia views the annexed lands as part of its own.
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/policy/defense-national-security/british-intelligence-russia-wider-conscription-warning