The article discusses the impact of Russia's partial mobilization announced in fall 2022, which shocked Russian society and led to a significant exodus of citizens attempting to evade military service. It highlights the queues at border crossings and chaotic mobilization efforts that ensued, underscoring the level of public anxiety and resistance towards the draft.

In response to the backlash from the initial mobilization tactics, the Russian government has adapted its strategies. The piece notes a shift towards a more clandestine approach, utilizing various methods to recruit soldiers. This includes mass recruitment from prisons, where convicts are promised pardons in exchange for their service, and incentivizing enlistment through offers of considerable financial rewards such as signing bonuses, debt forgiveness, and the allure of a potentially improved lifestyle — albeit at great personal risk.

Overall, the article illustrates the Kremlin's growing dependence on alternative recruitment methods to sustain its military efforts in Ukraine, raising questions about the moral implications and the effectiveness of such tactics. As the situation evolves, the long-term effects of these mobilization strategies on Russian society and military capability remain uncertain.