Russia has launched a new recruitment drive aimed at university students, offering lucrative financial packages to join its growing drone units involved in the Ukraine conflict. Universities across the country are promoting these opportunities, highlighting benefits such as academic leave, free accommodation, and substantial salaries. Officials say the initiative is part of efforts to strengthen technologically skilled divisions rather than a broader military mobilisation.

The move reflects the increasing importance of drone warfare, with operators and engineers playing a critical role on the battlefield. Institutions like Far Eastern Federal University and others are actively encouraging students to enlist, offering payments that far exceed typical local earnings. While authorities insist participation is voluntary, some reports suggest students may face indirect pressure, though this has not been independently verified.

At the same time, regional authorities are expanding recruitment efforts beyond campuses. In the Ryazan region, companies have been assigned quotas to supply workers for military service, signaling a wider push to sustain troop numbers. Despite ongoing recruitment, Russian officials maintain that enlistment levels remain strong and sufficient for current military needs.

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