On March 4, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree that will increase the regular army personnel to approximately 2.4 million, as reported by a legal acts website. This expansion is a continuation of previous efforts to bolster Russia's military capabilities since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with a notable increase in numbers from a similar decree issued in September 2023. The new personnel total of 2,391,770 includes 1,502,640 active-duty troops, reflecting an increase of 2,640 in the active ranks.

The strategic implications of this personnel expansion are significant. The Kremlin is attempting to maintain its military operations in Ukraine without resorting to full-scale mobilization, which would likely face considerable political backlash, as observed during the 2022 draft. Instead, the Russian military is relying on contract recruitment and financial incentives to attract volunteers and soldiers. This approach is reflective of a strategic balancing act, enabling Russia to sustain its military efforts while managing domestic opposition to conscription.

As Russia transitions from seasonal conscription to year-round recruitment, this shift highlights the ongoing pressures on military manpower as the war continues. Increasing the army’s strength is part of a broader military strategy, and the long-term effects of such expansions will likely have implications for Russia’s capability to sustain prolonged conflict in Ukraine and its interactions with NATO and neighboring countries.