The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine became one of the longest battles of the 21st Century. From the separatist clashes in 2014, Russia has taken it upon itself to keep reign over Ukraine – a matter that Ukrainian nationalists are hoping to fight back against. Despite their efforts, Russia has continued to maintain its presence in Ukraine, leading to an increasing need for an influx of fighters. This has seen Russia turn to a variety of new tactics, such as a controversial recruitment campaign. Here, we look at what this recruitment campaign entails, the potential implications it could have, and why it is seemingly necessary.
What is Russia’s Ukraine Recruitment Campaign?
Russia’s new tourist campaign aims to encourage citizens to volunteer in Ukraine’s military forces. It’s a two-week programme, aimed specifically at men aged between 18-45 – highlighting Ukraine’s desperate need for new recruits. Featuring phrases such as ‘we are looking for brave men’ and ‘come be a hero’, the campaign has caused much controversy with some claiming it to be a form of propaganda.
The campaign’s purpose is to entice participants to volunteer for a two-week military camp, held in Ukraine’s easternmost regions. It offers benefits such as free accommodation and food, as well as a return to Russia after the period is over. Despite calling it ‘a great opportunity’, this campaign is in fact a way for Russia to bolster its forces in Ukraine, quickly.
Why a Recruitment Drive is Necessary
It is no secret that Russian forces in Ukraine are diminishing. The majority of the rapid volunteer force is composed of young men from Ukraine-Russian border towns; with rumours circulating that some of the men are ‘hired guns’, with mandatory enlistment being introduced in recent years to make up for withdrawals.
With its campaign, Russia is hoping to re-establish its presence in Ukraine, through both its fighting forces and its support of pro-Russian separatists. If its efforts are successful, it could theoretically create an ongoing flow of recruits.
The Potential Impact
There is some concern that Russia’s tourist campaign could result in unintended consequences. Critics worry the campaign could see vulnerable or naive citizens overreached by Russia’s ideal of a ‘heroic role’, resulting in fights they are not properly equipped to take part in. It could also lead to an increase in the effects of war on the people of Ukraine, with a more zealous army more willing to go further to assert its dominance.
On the flip side, it could provide some benefits for participants. These may include bolstering courage and increased life experience for those wanting to do their part to help Ukraine gain its freedom.
The Reactions
Since the recruitment campaign was announced, there has been a variety of reactions from various sources. Whilst some government officials in Ukraine (particularly those with nationalist leanings) are hailing this recruitment campaign as a ‘sign of undeniable desperation’, and using the campaign as a way of proving the success of Ukraine in its fight against Russia, others have been less supportive.
The European Union, in particular, insists Russia’s campaign is a breach of international law and accuses the Kremlin of ‘direct involvement’ in the fighting in Ukraine. Such accusations, as well as the negative potential effect of this recruitment drive, have prompted calls for Russia to remove the campaign.
The Aftermath
Whether or not the campaign remains alive, it is undeniable that the campaign has forged a new wave of controversy, both in Russia and abroad. It has legitimised the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and, through these means, has acted as a ‘litmus test’ for further international reactions to the matter.
Moreover, it has also opened a Pandora’s box of potential consequences, both to the stability and security of Ukraine and, more broadly, to the wider geopolitical landscape.
Russia’s recruitment campaign has certainly caused many to pause and consider the possible ramifications of their actions, whether or not it is enforced. The implications of such a bold move suggest that what starts as a ‘great opportunity’ could quickly turn into a conflict of even greater proportions. Only time will tell whether Russia’s recruitment campaign will be deemed a success or, rather, a devastating failure – quite literally – in the long term.
