**Fewer Russians Signing Up to Fight in Ukraine War**
The number of Russians signing contracts at Moscow recruitment centers has fallen sharply. According to Russian media outlet Verstka, the daily number of volunteers signing up has decreased five-fold since last summer.
This change comes after a high number of applicants signed up following Ukraine’s Kursk offensive and the introduction of a one-time payment of 1.9 million rubles ($19,200). Since then, around 40 people per day have been signing up to fight in the war against Ukraine.
**Who is Signing Up?**
The composition of applicants has changed significantly. Half of those signing up are now foreigners from Africa, Asia, and China who want to make extra money or Russians under investigation for crimes. This change is a significant shift from the earlier surge of interest.
**Russia’s War Efforts**
Despite its efforts, Russia continues to suffer heavy losses in Ukraine. The country is losing around 1500-1750 casualties daily on the battlefield, including dead, wounded, and captured soldiers.
The war has been ongoing since late last year, with Russia making gains in eastern Ukraine but struggling to achieve a major breakthrough. NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander recently stated that Russia seems unlikely to make significant progress given its stretched resources.
**Other News**
In other news, drone strikes have been reported across several Russian regions, causing fires and prompting air defense responses. The attacks were carried out by Ukrainian forces using drones operated by the SBU and Special Operations Forces.
The sanctions against Russia have also continued to tighten. The latest measures will cut off more Russian banks from the SWIFT banking system and target additional vessels suspected of being part of Russia’s “shadow-fleet”.
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