Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulates Hero of Russia Stepan Belov on his birthday during a meeting with listeners of the ‘Time of Heroes’ programme, which will theoretically help veterans of the special operation to become civil servants: Alexander Kazakov/AP
The Kremlin is actively creating the illusion that participation in the war in Ukraine could lead to significant career opportunities, including potential government positions for combat veterans. This is part of Moscow’s efforts to combat a shortage of military personnel willing to sign contracts with the Ministry of Defense and to suppress criticism from war veterans.
According to The Moscow Times, several Ukrainian war veterans are currently interning at the Presidential Administration as part of the “Time of Heroes” program, aimed at elevating the prestige of military service and convincing the public of the importance of their sacrifices.
However, independent analysts like Abbas Gallyamov argue that this program is more about propaganda than a real chance for veterans to become part of the Russian elite. Instead, the Kremlin continues to promote Putin’s inner circle to key government positions.
At the same time, Russia is facing a personnel crisis on the Ukrainian front. According to Western estimates, Russian losses in Ukraine have exceeded 200,000 killed and 400,000 wounded. This has prompted the government to increase financial incentives for new recruits, including payouts of up to two million rubles upon signing a contract with the Ministry of Defense.
The situation is so dire that, according to UKDefenceJournal, part of the crew from Russia’s only aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, has been reassigned to ground combat duties in Ukraine, underscoring the serious shortage of military personnel.
