Putin’s new scam: Russia uses mercenary company to recruit women for war

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Russia has almost no men left on the front. Due to the heavy losses in Ukraine, the number of personnel in President Vladimir Putin’s army (71) continues to decrease. In the summer it was announced that the Kremlin was now looking for women for the army.

According to an SRF report, women make up about ten percent of the military. More women will now be recruited to support the medical service, in the field kitchen or in administration. The women are said to be recruited through a private mercenary company close to the Russian Ministry of Defense.

But women are also wanted for military service. The ‘Redut’ unit is said to be looking for female snipers or drone operators, SRF reports. The women should receive approximately 2,100 francs per month.

Money is crucial

Because of the role model, the Russians hesitate to send women to the front, Russia expert Margarete Klein tells the portal. Women are often seen as weak. Although there have been units with women before, this has hardly manifested itself within Russian memory culture.

The mercenary company is now looking for women for military service, including on the messaging service Telegram. It is unclear how successful the campaign has been so far.

In most cases, money is the deciding factor for a job in the military. Ideological backgrounds are rather rare, Russia expert Klein told SRF. Some women also worked in the barracks where their men were stationed. And: Working conditions are relatively safe, especially for women from poorer regions.

Last fall, Russia’s parliament said female recruits would only be used as a “last resort.” “On the whole, the war is not for women,” said a Duma deputy. (zis)

Source: Blick