Russia Proposes Raising Military Age Limits Amid War Casualties

In an effort to bolster its forces, Russia plans to increase the maximum age for military service, potentially imposing lifetime contracts on servicemen.

• Russia is proposing to raise the maximum age for military personnel to 70 for officers and 65 for other ranks, significantly higher than the current limit of 51.
• The move, aimed at alleviating the need for further mobilization, is unlikely to enhance Russia's combat effectiveness, especially in kinetic assaults.
• The proposed age limits exceed Russia's average male life expectancy of 64.2 years, effectively creating lifetime contracts for servicemen.
• Since the invasion of Ukraine began, Russia has faced substantial troop losses, with estimates suggesting nearly 400,000 casualties.
• British Foreign Secretary David Cameron is urging allies to increase defense production to support Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia and potential US military aid uncertainties.

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